Judge Demands Explanation for 'Grand Jury Proceeding Outside Jurisdiction' in Trump Documents Case

Federal Judge Seeks Explanation for "Out-of-District Grand Jury Proceeding" in Trump Case

A federal judge, nominated by former President Donald Trump, is requesting a legal explanation for an "out-of-district grand jury proceeding" in the special counsel's case against Trump and his aide. The judge responded to the Department of Justice's request for a hearing to address potential conflicts of interest with a lawyer representing Trump's valet.

Deadline Set for Defendant's Response

The defendant, Nauta, has been given until August 17 to file a response. The response should address the legality of using a grand jury proceeding from outside the district to investigate and seek post-indictment hearings related to the current case.

Order Requires Response and Removal of Sealed Filings

In a recent order, Judge Cannon stated that Smith must respond to the ongoing discussion by August 22. The other defendants involved in the case have the option to submit their own briefs on the grand jury matter, but it is not mandatory. Additionally, the clerk has been instructed to remove two sealed filings made by the prosecutors.

Strong Reaction on Social Media

Judge Cannon's order has sparked a strong reaction on social media. The order pertains to the government's request for a hearing on conflicts of interest involving Nauta's lawyer. The judge also disclosed the existence of a grand jury investigation in another district while denying the government's motion to seal. This decision could potentially lead to an appeal by the government. Social media users expressed indignation and speculated on the judge's fitness for this case.

Former Prosecutor Criticizes Judge Cannon

Andrew Weissmann, a former federal prosecutor from special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, criticized Judge Cannon for alleged ignorance or bias. He argued that the obstruction crimes investigated could have been charged in either Florida or Washington, D.C., and therefore could be investigated in either district. Weissmann also mentioned allegations of conduct that occurred outside of Florida.

Support for Judge Cannon

Author and journalist Julie Kelly expressed her support for Judge Cannon, stating that she will not tolerate Jack Smith's behavior. Kelly highlighted a significant development in the case where the defense raised concerns about possible grand jury abuse by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The defense argued that the DOJ conducted most of the investigation in Washington, D.C., but switched to Florida at the last minute for the indictment. This development is seen as significant and potentially beneficial for the defense.

Republican Representative Agrees with Kelly

Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia expressed her agreement with Kelly's statement, criticizing Judge Jack Smith. Kelly, in a separate post, defended Judge Cannon against accusations of improperly revealing grand jury information. She criticized reporters and legal analysts for misattributing the disclosure to Judge Cannon when it was actually Jack Smith who made the disclosure in a motion filed the previous week.

Case Details

Smith has filed a case against Trump and Nauta in the Southern District of Florida. Both Trump and Nauta have pleaded not guilty to charges including concealment and obstruction. Carlos De Oliveira, an employee at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, has also been charged but has not entered a plea yet.