A former senior federal prosecutor has found herself at the centre of a striking new Justice Department scandal after prosecutors accused her of secretly emailing herself confidential records tied to the Jack Smith investigation into Donald Trump, allegedly disguising the files as cake recipes. Carmen Lineberger, once a top official in the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, was indicted this week on multiple criminal charges, including theft of government property, concealing public records and altering official documents.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jealous-trump-tries-to-downplay-xi-putin-private-tea-meeting-insists-his-beijing-welcome-was-more-brilliant-1779340945856">Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’</a><h2>Charges against Lineberger</h2>At the heart of the case is a highly sensitive section of former US Special Counsel Jack Smith's final Trump investigation report. Specifically, a portion that a federal judge had blocked from public release.According to the newly unsealed indictment, Lineberger allegedly downloaded the classified-documents section of Smith’s report, known internally as "Volume II," in December 2025 and saved it under the filename "Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf" before emailing it from her government account to her personal email.Prosecutors say she used a similar tactic months later with portions of another internal Justice Department memo, allegedly storing those files as "Chocolate_cake_recipe.pdf."The indictment does not explain what prosecutors believe her ultimate motive was, nor whether the documents were ever shared further. Lineberger pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on Wednesday.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-m-for-melody-not-mehengai-congress-mocks-modi-obver-meloni-video-claims-viral-reel-insult-to-indians-suffering-1779332013625">‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’</a><h2>Why the report matters: Hint - these might be the most politically sensitive unreleased documents</h2>The document at the centre of the controversy comes from Jack Smith’s investigation into Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents after leaving office back in 2020.Trump had been accused of retaining sensitive government records at Mar-a-Lago and obstructing efforts to recover them, charges he repeatedly dismissed as politically motivated. The case collapsed later after Judge Aileen Cannon ruled Smith's appointment was unlawful.Since then, Trump’s return to the White House has further complicated matters, as longstanding Justice Department policy bars prosecution of a sitting president.Notably, even after the criminal case was dismissed, Cannon blocked the release of Volume II, arguing that public disclosure could prejudice ongoing cases involving Trump associates. This makes the report one of the most politically sensitive unreleased documents in Washington.

A former federal prosecutor is now accused of smuggling some of Washington’s most politically explosive Donald Trump investigation files by Jack Smith out of the Justice Department by disguising them as cake recipes. All you need to know.

A former senior federal prosecutor has found herself at the centre of a striking new Justice Department scandal after prosecutors accused her of secretly emailing herself confidential records tied to the Jack Smith investigation into Donald Trump, allegedly disguising the files as cake recipes. Carmen Lineberger, once a top official in the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, was indicted this week on multiple criminal charges, including theft of government property, concealing public records and altering official documents. Also read | Jealous? Trump tries to downplay Xi-Putin private tea meeting, insists his Beijing welcome was ‘more brilliant’ Charges against Lineberger At the heart of the case is a highly sensitive section of former US Special Counsel Jack Smith's final Trump investigation report. Specifically, a portion that a federal judge had blocked from public release. According to the newly unsealed indictment, Lineberger allegedly downloaded the classified-documents section of Smith’s report, known internally as "Volume II," in December 2025 and saved it under the filename "Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf" before emailing it from her government account to her personal email. Prosecutors say she used a similar tactic months later with portions of another internal Justice Department memo, allegedly storing those files as "Chocolate_cake_recipe.pdf." The indictment does not explain what prosecutors believe her ultimate motive was, nor whether the documents were ever shared further. Lineberger pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on Wednesday. Also read | ‘M for Melody, not Mehengai’: Congress mocks Modi over Meloni video, claims viral reel ‘insult to Indians suffering’ Why the report matters: Hint - these might be the most politically sensitive unreleased documents The document at the centre of the controversy comes from Jack Smith’s investigation into Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents after leaving office back in 2020. Trump had been accused of retaining sensitive government records at Mar-a-Lago and obstructing efforts to recover them, charges he repeatedly dismissed as politically motivated. The case collapsed later after Judge Aileen Cannon ruled Smith's appointment was unlawful. Since then, Trump’s return to the White House has further complicated matters, as longstanding Justice Department policy bars prosecution of a sitting president. Notably, even after the criminal case was dismissed, Cannon blocked the release of Volume II, arguing that public disclosure could prejudice ongoing cases involving Trump associates. This makes the report one of the most politically sensitive unreleased documents in Washington.

A former federal prosecutor is now accused of smuggling some of Washington’s most politically explosive Donald Trump investigation files by Jack Smith out of the Justice Department by disguising them as cake recipes. All you need to know.

'Bundt_Cake_Recipe.pdf': Prosecutor charged with smuggling SECRET Jack Smith report on Trump

The US Office of Special Counsel has launched an investigation into Jack Smith, the former special counsel who brought two federal criminal cases against President Donald Trump, according to reports published in US media on Saturday (Aug 2). The inquiry, first reported by The New York Times, will examine whether Smith violated the Hatch Act—a law that bars federal employees from engaging in partisan political activity while on the job. Republican Senator Tom Cotton reportedly requested the probe, alleging that Smith's prosecution decisions may have been politically motivated and timed to influence the 2024 election.<h2>Who is Jack Smith?</h2>Jack Smith, appointed special counsel in 2022, led two high-profile federal investigations against Trump: one for attempting to overturn the 2020 election and another for mishandling classified documents after leaving office. Trump denied all charges and repeatedly claimed the cases were politically motivated, while alleging that the Justice Department was being weaponised against him.It must be noted that neither case reached trial. After Trump won the 2024 election, the Justice Department, citing its long-standing policy of not prosecuting sitting presidents, dropped both cases. Smith resigned shortly afterwards, before Trump could act on his campaign vow to fire him.Importantly, the Office of Special Counsel investigating Smith is not part of the Department of Justice, despite sharing a similar name. Its role is to monitor the conduct of federal employees and enforce federal employment rules—not oversee criminal prosecutions. It cannot charge Smith with any crime but could refer its findings to the DOJ, which has the power to prosecute.<h2>What is the Hatch Act?</h2>The Hatch Act, enacted in 1939, regulates the political activities of federal employees and certain state and local government workers. If found guilty under the Hatch act Smith may face the harshest penalty under the law. The most severe penalty under the Hatch Act is removal from federal service, which does not apply to Smith as he no longer holds a government position.<h2>Trump's political retribution continues?</h2>Since returning to office in January, Trump has acted swiftly to target former officials and critics. His administration has revoked security clearances, cut protective details, and defunded institutions he claims worked against him. In recent weeks, the FBI opened criminal investigations into former FBI director James Comey and ex-CIA chief John Brennan—both prominent Trump critics. Comey's daughter Maurene, a federal prosecutor involved in the Jeffrey Epstein case, was also abruptly dismissed—raising further questions about political retribution inside the Trump administration.

The inquiry will examine whether by prosecuting Donald Trump, former special counsel Jack Smith violated the Hatch Act—a law that bars federal employees from engaging in partisan political activity while on the job. 

The US Office of Special Counsel has launched an investigation into Jack Smith, the former special counsel who brought two federal criminal cases against President Donald Trump, according to reports published in US media on Saturday (Aug 2). The inquiry, first reported by The New York Times, will examine whether Smith violated the Hatch Act—a law that bars federal employees from engaging in partisan political activity while on the job. Republican Senator Tom Cotton reportedly requested the probe, alleging that Smith's prosecution decisions may have been politically motivated and timed to influence the 2024 election. Who is Jack Smith? Jack Smith, appointed special counsel in 2022, led two high-profile federal investigations against Trump: one for attempting to overturn the 2020 election and another for mishandling classified documents after leaving office. Trump denied all charges and repeatedly claimed the cases were politically motivated, while alleging that the Justice Department was being weaponised against him. It must be noted that neither case reached trial. After Trump won the 2024 election, the Justice Department, citing its long-standing policy of not prosecuting sitting presidents, dropped both cases. Smith resigned shortly afterwards, before Trump could act on his campaign vow to fire him. Importantly, the Office of Special Counsel investigating Smith is not part of the Department of Justice, despite sharing a similar name. Its role is to monitor the conduct of federal employees and enforce federal employment rules—not oversee criminal prosecutions. It cannot charge Smith with any crime but could refer its findings to the DOJ, which has the power to prosecute. What is the Hatch Act? The Hatch Act, enacted in 1939, regulates the political activities of federal employees and certain state and local government workers. If found guilty under the Hatch act Smith may face the harshest penalty under the law. The most severe penalty under the Hatch Act is removal from federal service, which does not apply to Smith as he no longer holds a government position. Trump's political retribution continues? Since returning to office in January, Trump has acted swiftly to target former officials and critics. His administration has revoked security clearances, cut protective details, and defunded institutions he claims worked against him. In recent weeks, the FBI opened criminal investigations into former FBI director James Comey and ex-CIA chief John Brennan—both prominent Trump critics. Comey's daughter Maurene, a federal prosecutor involved in the Jeffrey Epstein case, was also abruptly dismissed—raising further questions about political retribution inside the Trump administration.

The inquiry will examine whether by prosecuting Donald Trump, former special counsel Jack Smith violated the Hatch Act—a law that bars federal employees from engaging in partisan political activity while on the job.&nbsp;

Who is Jack Smith? US opens investigation into special counsel who prosecuted Trump

US President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Tuesday (Jan 14) called Jack Smith's report on his 'unprecedented efforts' to overturn the 2020 election result as "fake", saying that the "unselected committee illegally destroyed and deleted all the evidence".&nbsp;
Smith, in his final report, said he believed there was enough evidence to convict Trump in a trial if his 2024 election win had not made it impossible for the prosecution to continue.&nbsp;
The report, published early Tuesday, includes 250 voluntary interviews and testimony from more than 55 witnesses before the grand jury.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-doj-releases-jack-smiths-final-report-special-counsel-details-trumps-criminal-efforts-to-overturn-2020-election-results-8620240" rel="dofollow">US DoJ releases Jack Smith's Jan 6 report detailing Trump's 'criminal' efforts to overturn 2020 election results</a>
Smith alleged that the president-elect engaged in an "unprecedented criminal effort to overturn the legitimate results" of the 2020 elections so as "to retain power," but noted that his 2024 election win makes it impossible to prosecute him.
<h2>'Deranged Jack Smith'</h2>
After the report was released, Trump took to Truth Social and said, "To show you how desperate Deranged Jack Smith is, he released his Fake findings at 1:00 A.M. in the morning. Did he say that the Unselect Committee illegally destroyed and deleted all of the evidence?"
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x348/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/e4f92c57-eec.png">

<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>
Earlier in November, the cases against Trump, including the classified documents case, were discontinued after his victory in the elections due to the Justice Department's policy against prosecuting sitting presidents.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-inauguration-us-right-wing-livid-after-pro-hezbollah-muslim-cleric-invited-8621494" rel="dofollow">US right-wing livid after &lsquo;pro-Hezbollah&rsquo; Muslim cleric invited to Trump inauguration</a>
According to the report, Smith believed that Trump would have been found guilty of multiple felonies for his attempts to unlawfully alter the 2020 election outcome had voters not elected him president in 2024.&nbsp;
"The Department's view that the Constitution prohibits the continued indictment and prosecution of a President is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the Government's proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the Office stands fully behind," the report read.
"Indeed, but for Trump's election and imminent return to the Presidency, the Office assessed that the admissible evidence was sufficient to obtain and sustain a conviction at trial."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-in-farewell-foreign-policy-speech-slams-president-elect-donald-trump-claims-america-stronger-on-world-stage-8619679" rel="dofollow"> Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal</a>
The 137-page volume is one of two in Smith&rsquo;s final report but is the only one that was expected to be released. The second volume covers the investigation into Trump allegedly withholding classified White House documents. Garland has said he does not want the volume of the documents' case to be released publicly while Trump&rsquo;s co-defendants in the case are still being prosecuted.
While Smith has concluded his cases against Trump, charges against his co-defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira in the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case remain unresolved.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The report, published early Tuesday, includes 250 voluntary interviews and testimony from more than 55 witnesses before the grand jury. 

US President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jan 14) called Jack Smith's report on his 'unprecedented efforts' to overturn the 2020 election result as "fake", saying that the "unselected committee illegally destroyed and deleted all the evidence". Smith, in his final report, said he believed there was enough evidence to convict Trump in a trial if his 2024 election win had not made it impossible for the prosecution to continue. The report, published early Tuesday, includes 250 voluntary interviews and testimony from more than 55 witnesses before the grand jury. Also read: US DoJ releases Jack Smith's Jan 6 report detailing Trump's 'criminal' efforts to overturn 2020 election results Smith alleged that the president-elect engaged in an "unprecedented criminal effort to overturn the legitimate results" of the 2020 elections so as "to retain power," but noted that his 2024 election win makes it impossible to prosecute him. 'Deranged Jack Smith' After the report was released, Trump took to Truth Social and said, "To show you how desperate Deranged Jack Smith is, he released his Fake findings at 1:00 A.M. in the morning. Did he say that the Unselect Committee illegally destroyed and deleted all of the evidence?" Earlier in November, the cases against Trump, including the classified documents case, were discontinued after his victory in the elections due to the Justice Department's policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. Also read: US right-wing livid after ‘pro-Hezbollah’ Muslim cleric invited to Trump inauguration According to the report, Smith believed that Trump would have been found guilty of multiple felonies for his attempts to unlawfully alter the 2020 election outcome had voters not elected him president in 2024. "The Department's view that the Constitution prohibits the continued indictment and prosecution of a President is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the Government's proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the Office stands fully behind," the report read. "Indeed, but for Trump's election and imminent return to the Presidency, the Office assessed that the admissible evidence was sufficient to obtain and sustain a conviction at trial." Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal The 137-page volume is one of two in Smith’s final report but is the only one that was expected to be released. The second volume covers the investigation into Trump allegedly withholding classified White House documents. Garland has said he does not want the volume of the documents' case to be released publicly while Trump’s co-defendants in the case are still being prosecuted. While Smith has concluded his cases against Trump, charges against his co-defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira in the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case remain unresolved. (With inputs from agencies)

'Fake findings at 1 am,' Trump slams Jack Smith's report on Jan 6 case

A federal judge on Friday granted a request by Special Counsel&nbsp;Jack&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;to pause the case against Donald Trump for conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

In a filing with District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case,&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;noted that Trump won the White House race this week and is to be inaugurated as president on January 20, 2025.

He asked Chutkan to vacate the filing deadlines in the case "to afford the government time to assess this unprecedented circumstance and determine the appropriate course going forward consistent with Department of Justice policy."

Chutkan granted&nbsp;Smith's request without comment.

The Justice Department has a long-standing policy of not prosecuting a sitting president.

Smith&nbsp;said he would file a status report with the court by December 2.

Trump is accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding -- the session of Congress called to certify Joe Biden's win, which was violently attacked on January 6, 2021, by a mob of the former president's supporters.

Trump is also accused of seeking to disenfranchise US voters with his false claims that he won the 2020 election.

Smith&nbsp;charged Trump with mishandling top secret documents after leaving the White House, but that case was tossed out by a federal judge in Florida, a Trump appointee, on the grounds that&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;was unlawfully appointed.

Smith&nbsp;had appealed the dismissal but is now expected to drop the appeal.&nbsp;

Trump also faces two state cases -- in New York and Georgia.

He was convicted in New York in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election to stop her from revealing an alleged 2006 sexual encounter.

Trump was scheduled to be sentenced in July, but his lawyers asked that his conviction be tossed in light of the Supreme Court immunity ruling.

Judge Juan Merchan is to rule on the dismissal motion on November 12 and has set sentencing -- should it still be necessary -- for November 26.

Trump, the first former president convicted of a crime, faces up to four years in prison on each count. As a first-time offender, however, he was considered far more likely to receive a fine and probation -- but that was before his White House win.

In Georgia, Trump faces racketeering charges over his efforts to subvert the 2020 results in the southern state, but that case will likely be frozen while he is in office under the policy of not prosecuting a sitting president.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A federal judge on Friday granted a request by Special Counsel Jack Smith to pause the case against Donald Trump for conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

A federal judge on Friday granted a request by Special Counsel Jack Smith to pause the case against Donald Trump for conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. In a filing with District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case, Smith noted that Trump won the White House race this week and is to be inaugurated as president on January 20, 2025. He asked Chutkan to vacate the filing deadlines in the case "to afford the government time to assess this unprecedented circumstance and determine the appropriate course going forward consistent with Department of Justice policy." Chutkan granted Smith's request without comment. The Justice Department has a long-standing policy of not prosecuting a sitting president. Smith said he would file a status report with the court by December 2. Trump is accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding -- the session of Congress called to certify Joe Biden's win, which was violently attacked on January 6, 2021, by a mob of the former president's supporters. Trump is also accused of seeking to disenfranchise US voters with his false claims that he won the 2020 election. Smith charged Trump with mishandling top secret documents after leaving the White House, but that case was tossed out by a federal judge in Florida, a Trump appointee, on the grounds that Smith was unlawfully appointed. Smith had appealed the dismissal but is now expected to drop the appeal. Trump also faces two state cases -- in New York and Georgia. He was convicted in New York in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election to stop her from revealing an alleged 2006 sexual encounter. Trump was scheduled to be sentenced in July, but his lawyers asked that his conviction be tossed in light of the Supreme Court immunity ruling. Judge Juan Merchan is to rule on the dismissal motion on November 12 and has set sentencing -- should it still be necessary -- for November 26. Trump, the first former president convicted of a crime, faces up to four years in prison on each count. As a first-time offender, however, he was considered far more likely to receive a fine and probation -- but that was before his White House win. In Georgia, Trump faces racketeering charges over his efforts to subvert the 2020 results in the southern state, but that case will likely be frozen while he is in office under the policy of not prosecuting a sitting president. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump election interference case: US judge grants request by special counsel to pause case

Special counsel Jack Smith of the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has planned to end his two prosecutions of United States President-elect Donald Trump and resign before the 2024 presidential election winner takes office, the New York Times reported citing people familiar with his plans.&nbsp;

He is planning to finish his work and resign along with other members of his team before January.&nbsp;

Last year, Smith indicted Trump for allegedly plotting to overturn his 2020 election defeat, and also for conspiring to hide classified documents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-will-happen-to-trumps-criminal-cases-if-he-becomes-the-next-us-president-773550">Also read:&nbsp;What will happen to Trump's criminal cases as he wins US presidential election?</a>

However, neither of these cases made it to trial before Trump's election win last week, which made it impossible for Smith to continue.

According to the Justice Department policies, it is prohibited to prosecute sitting presidents, and Trump has vowed to fire Smith within “two seconds” of becoming president again.

The sources said that Smith's goal is to not leave any significant part of his work for others to complete, adding that he will get ahead of Trump's promise to fire him within “two seconds” of being sworn in.

However, Smith's office is still building its plan for how to end the cases, and there are chances that unforeseen circumstances, including judicial rulings or decisions by other government officials, could alter his timeline.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Department Of Justice To Drop Federal Cases Against Trump

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But, Smith is trying to finish his work and leave before Trump returns to office, sources told NYT.&nbsp; 
 
As Smith gets ready for his last act as special counsel, his ultimate audience will not be the jury, but the public. 
 
Meanwhile, several officials said that Smith has no plans of staying any longer than he has to. He also told career prosecutors and FBI agents on his team to start planning their departures over the next few weeks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Special counsel Jack Smith of the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has planned to end his two prosecutions of United States President-elect Donald Trump and resign before the 2024 presidential election winner takes office, the New York Times reported citing people familiar with his plans.

Special counsel Jack Smith of the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has planned to end his two prosecutions of United States President-elect Donald Trump and resign before the 2024 presidential election winner takes office, the New York Times reported citing people familiar with his plans. He is planning to finish his work and resign along with other members of his team before January. Last year, Smith indicted Trump for allegedly plotting to overturn his 2020 election defeat, and also for conspiring to hide classified documents. Also read: What will happen to Trump's criminal cases as he wins US presidential election? However, neither of these cases made it to trial before Trump's election win last week, which made it impossible for Smith to continue. According to the Justice Department policies, it is prohibited to prosecute sitting presidents, and Trump has vowed to fire Smith within “two seconds” of becoming president again. The sources said that Smith's goal is to not leave any significant part of his work for others to complete, adding that he will get ahead of Trump's promise to fire him within “two seconds” of being sworn in. However, Smith's office is still building its plan for how to end the cases, and there are chances that unforeseen circumstances, including judicial rulings or decisions by other government officials, could alter his timeline. Watch | Department Of Justice To Drop Federal Cases Against Trump × But, Smith is trying to finish his work and leave before Trump returns to office, sources told NYT. As Smith gets ready for his last act as special counsel, his ultimate audience will not be the jury, but the public. Meanwhile, several officials said that Smith has no plans of staying any longer than he has to. He also told career prosecutors and FBI agents on his team to start planning their departures over the next few weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

US special counsel Jack Smith plans to end prosecutions against Trump, resign before he takes office

A judge in the US state of Florida on Monday (July 15) dismissed the criminal case against former president Donald Trump accusing him of mishandling classified information, finding that the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith was unconstitutional.

A judge in the US state of Florida on Monday (July 15) dismissed the criminal case against former president Donald Trump accusing him of mishandling classified information, finding that the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith was unconstitutional. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that US District Judge Aileen Cannon granted the defence motion to dismiss the case, voiding a prosecution that at the time it was brought was seen as the most perilous of the multiple legal threats Trump faced. A look at the case Trump was facing 31 counts of willful retention of national defence information, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison. He also faced charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice and making false statements. Also read | I could see blood on his face, says photographer who captured the assassination attempt on Trump The current Republican presidential candidate allegedly kept classified documents -- which included records from the Pentagon and CIA -- unsecured at his Mar-a-Lago home and thwarted efforts to retrieve them. Lawyers of the former president argued that special counsel Smith was illicitly appointed in violation of the Constitution’s Appointments Clause and that his office was improperly funded by the Justice Department. Smith’s team had vigorously contested the argument during hearings before Cannon in June. 'Just the first step' Reacting to Cannon's decision, Trump said that all cases against him should be dismissed. "This dismissal of the Lawless Indictment in Florida should be just the first step, followed quickly by the dismissal of ALL the Witch Hunts," the 78-year-old said in a post on Truth Social. × Cannon's decision comes as Trump prepares to accept the presidential nomination at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee following an assassination attempt on Saturday (July 13). Trump was not majorly wounded but suffered an injury in his right ear. The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead. (With inputs from agencies)

Big relief for Trump as US judge dismisses classified documents case against him

Special Counsel Jack Smith, in the ongoing legal saga surrounding Donald Trump's handling of classified documents, sought a gag order against the former US President&nbsp;after his brazen&nbsp;claims regarding FBI actions during a search at his Mar-a-Lago resort.

The request made by prosecutors from the special counsel's office comes in response to Trump's repeated and unfounded criticisms of the FBI's protocol during the search operation conducted in August 2022.&nbsp;

Trump had claimed that he "nearly escaped death. Biden’s DOJ was locked and loaded for deadly force at Mar-a-Lago …” “They were authorized to shoot me!"&nbsp;

Trump's&nbsp;allegation&nbsp;that FBI agents were prepared to use deadly force against him and his family during the search were debunked by FBI&nbsp;Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uvalde-school-shooting-families-of-victims-sue-instagram-and-call-of-duty-725179">Uvalde school shooting: Families of victims sue Instagram and Call of Duty&nbsp;</a>

“That allegation is false, and it is extremely dangerous. The document that is being referred to in the allegation is the Justice Department’s standard policy, limiting the use of force,” Garland said.

Prosecutors argued that Trump's inflammatory remarks pose a threat to the integrity of the ongoing criminal case and the safety of law enforcement officers involved.

“The Government’s request is necessary because of several intentionally false and inflammatory statements recently made by Trump that distort the circumstances under which the Federal Bureau of Investigation planned and executed the search warrant at Mar-a-Lago,” prosecutors&nbsp;wrote.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guinea-landslide-four-killed-over-300-buried-as-rescue-teams-rush-to-save-trapped-villagers-725167">Papua New Guinea landslide: Four killed, over 300 buried as rescue teams rush to save trapped villagers</a>

“Those statements create a grossly misleading impression about the intentions and conduct of federal law enforcement agents—falsely suggesting that they were complicit in a plot to assassinate him—and expose those agents, some of whom will be witnesses at trial, to the risk of threats, violence, and harassment," they added.&nbsp;

<h2>'Repeated mischaracterisation as an attempt to kill him'</h2>

The filing revealed that Trump has continued to amplify his accusations against the FBI via his Truth Social account, despite official clarifications and the release of paperwork detailing standard FBI search protocols.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-gun-politics-could-affect-us-polls-725168">How gun politics could affect US polls?</a>

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“Trump‘s repeated mischaracterisation as an attempt to kill him, his family, and Secret Service agents has endangered law enforcement officers involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case and threatened the integrity of these proceedings,” prosecutors wrote.

Gag orders restricting Trump's public commentary have been upheld in other legal proceedings, including his New York trial and the election interference case in Washington, DC, due to concerns about threats and harassment stemming from his remarks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Special Counsel Jack Smith, in the ongoing legal saga surrounding Donald Trump's handling of classified documents, sought a gag order against the former US President after his brazen claims regarding FBI actions during a search at his Mar-a-Lago resort.

Special Counsel Jack Smith, in the ongoing legal saga surrounding Donald Trump's handling of classified documents, sought a gag order against the former US President after his brazen claims regarding FBI actions during a search at his Mar-a-Lago resort. The request made by prosecutors from the special counsel's office comes in response to Trump's repeated and unfounded criticisms of the FBI's protocol during the search operation conducted in August 2022. Trump had claimed that he "nearly escaped death. Biden’s DOJ was locked and loaded for deadly force at Mar-a-Lago …” “They were authorized to shoot me!" Trump's allegation that FBI agents were prepared to use deadly force against him and his family during the search were debunked by FBI Attorney General Merrick Garland. Also Read | Uvalde school shooting: Families of victims sue Instagram and Call of Duty “That allegation is false, and it is extremely dangerous. The document that is being referred to in the allegation is the Justice Department’s standard policy, limiting the use of force,” Garland said. Prosecutors argued that Trump's inflammatory remarks pose a threat to the integrity of the ongoing criminal case and the safety of law enforcement officers involved. “The Government’s request is necessary because of several intentionally false and inflammatory statements recently made by Trump that distort the circumstances under which the Federal Bureau of Investigation planned and executed the search warrant at Mar-a-Lago,” prosecutors wrote. Also Read | Papua New Guinea landslide: Four killed, over 300 buried as rescue teams rush to save trapped villagers “Those statements create a grossly misleading impression about the intentions and conduct of federal law enforcement agents—falsely suggesting that they were complicit in a plot to assassinate him—and expose those agents, some of whom will be witnesses at trial, to the risk of threats, violence, and harassment," they added. 'Repeated mischaracterisation as an attempt to kill him' The filing revealed that Trump has continued to amplify his accusations against the FBI via his Truth Social account, despite official clarifications and the release of paperwork detailing standard FBI search protocols. Watch | How gun politics could affect US polls? × “Trump‘s repeated mischaracterisation as an attempt to kill him, his family, and Secret Service agents has endangered law enforcement officers involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case and threatened the integrity of these proceedings,” prosecutors wrote. Gag orders restricting Trump's public commentary have been upheld in other legal proceedings, including his New York trial and the election interference case in Washington, DC, due to concerns about threats and harassment stemming from his remarks. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Special Counsel seeks gag order on Trump who claims FBI agents were 'authorised to shoot me'

In a court filing on Saturday (Dec 30), US Special Counsel Jack Smith strongly contested former President Donald Trump's claim of absolute immunity from criminal prosecution, stating that such a claim "threatens to license Presidents to commit crimes to remain in office."

Smith's response precedes oral arguments scheduled for January 9 before a US appeals court in Washington, DC, in the federal election subversion case.&nbsp;Ex-President Donald Trump is calling on a federal appeals court to dismiss the federal election subversion criminal case in Washington, DC, asserting that he is shielded by presidential immunity.

In the filing, Smith countered Trump's argument that the prosecution endangers the foundation of the Republic.

He asserted, "To the contrary: it is the defendant’s claim that he cannot be held to answer for the charges that he engaged in an unprecedented effort to retain power through criminal means, despite having lost the election, that threatens the democratic and constitutional foundation of our Republic."

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Smith urged the court to affirm and expedite the resolution of the case to serve the public and the defendant's interest in a prompt resolution.

Trump, who is facing four counts in the case, has pleaded not guilty.&nbsp;

The federal election subversion case's pre-trial proceedings were temporarily halted pending Trump’s appeal of the district court judge’s ruling that, as a former president, he is not entitled to immunity for potential crimes committed while in office.

Originally set for March 4, the trial date has been a point of contention, with Trump's legal team advocating for a post-2024 presidential election timeline.

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Smith, in the Saturday filing, emphasised the dangers of granting a former president broad immunity, stating, "The implications of the defendant’s broad immunity theory are sobering." He warned against a precedent that would shield a president from prosecution for various criminal activities, including bribery, tampering with evidence, ordering violence against critics, or selling national secrets to foreign adversaries, all under the guise of executing presidential duties.

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If the appeals court swiftly addresses these arguments, it may maintain the scheduled trial date, resisting efforts to postpone until after the 2024 election.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a court filing on Saturday (Dec 30), US Special Counsel Jack Smith strongly contested former President Donald Trump's claim of absolute immunity from criminal prosecution, stating that such a claim "threatens to license Presidents to commit crimes to remain in office.

In a court filing on Saturday (Dec 30), US Special Counsel Jack Smith strongly contested former President Donald Trump's claim of absolute immunity from criminal prosecution, stating that such a claim "threatens to license Presidents to commit crimes to remain in office." Smith's response precedes oral arguments scheduled for January 9 before a US appeals court in Washington, DC, in the federal election subversion case. Ex-President Donald Trump is calling on a federal appeals court to dismiss the federal election subversion criminal case in Washington, DC, asserting that he is shielded by presidential immunity. In the filing, Smith countered Trump's argument that the prosecution endangers the foundation of the Republic. He asserted, "To the contrary: it is the defendant’s claim that he cannot be held to answer for the charges that he engaged in an unprecedented effort to retain power through criminal means, despite having lost the election, that threatens the democratic and constitutional foundation of our Republic." Also Read | Global terror alert: Cities ramp up security measures for New Year's celebrations amid 'high risk' of attacks Smith urged the court to affirm and expedite the resolution of the case to serve the public and the defendant's interest in a prompt resolution. Trump, who is facing four counts in the case, has pleaded not guilty. The federal election subversion case's pre-trial proceedings were temporarily halted pending Trump’s appeal of the district court judge’s ruling that, as a former president, he is not entitled to immunity for potential crimes committed while in office. Originally set for March 4, the trial date has been a point of contention, with Trump's legal team advocating for a post-2024 presidential election timeline. Also Read | EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Uganda NAM Summit in January 2024 Smith, in the Saturday filing, emphasised the dangers of granting a former president broad immunity, stating, "The implications of the defendant’s broad immunity theory are sobering." He warned against a precedent that would shield a president from prosecution for various criminal activities, including bribery, tampering with evidence, ordering violence against critics, or selling national secrets to foreign adversaries, all under the guise of executing presidential duties. Watch | Hamas officials to visit Cairo for hostage talks × If the appeals court swiftly addresses these arguments, it may maintain the scheduled trial date, resisting efforts to postpone until after the 2024 election. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Special Counsel rebuts Trump's immunity claim, warns of threat to democracy

The Supreme Court will comment on Donald Trump's historic prosecution for the first time on Monday, when special counsel Jack Smith asked the court to determine whether the former president is immune from prosecution for crimes he is accused of committing while in office.

US: Special Counsel Jack Smith requests Supreme Court to weigh in on community claim | World DNA

Jack Smith, a United States attorney appointed to investigate Donald Trump, is a callous war crimes prosecutor who revealed two federal indictments against the former president.

Jack Smith, a United States attorney appointed to investigate Donald Trump, is a callous war crimes prosecutor who revealed two federal indictments against the former president. Who is Jack Smith? Smith is no stranger to high-profile prosecutions of public figures. He has overseen multiple anti-corruption prosecutions against many US politicians as the head of the Department of Justice public integrity section from 2010 to 2015. The International Criminal Court appointed him as a coordinator of investigations for the prosecutor's office from 2008 to 2010. Smith, a Harvard Law School graduate, handled the prosecution of former Virginia governor Robert McDonnell. He secured him a conviction on bribery charges. He also prosecuted former GOP representative from Arizona, Rick Renzi, who received a prison sentence of three years before being pardoned by Trump. Furthermore, Jack Smith has served in prosecutorial positions in US Attorney Offices in the Middle District of Tennessee and the Eastern District of New York. Earlier, he served as a specialist prosecutor supervising probes into war crimes in Kosovo since 2018 in the Dutch city of Hague. Donald Trump vs Jack Smith In November 2022, Attorney General Garland appointed him to handle two cases: one on Trump's attempt to topple the 2020 election, including the lead-up to the 6 January 2021 attack on the Capitol, and the other on his retention of classified materials at his residence in Florida. For the first time in US history, a former president who is also running for the next presidential election is facing criminal charges. On 13 June 2023, Trump was arrested and indicted on 37 federal charges in a federal court in Miami. However, he pleaded not guilty. In July, Smith hit Trump with fresh accusations in the case, claiming that the former president tried to delete Mar-a-Lago security footage to save it from authorities probing his secret documents handling the case. According to him, Trump's close aide, Walt Nauta, and Mar-a-Lago property manager, Carlos De Oliveira, helped him hide the footage. Smith also hit Trump with a new charge for possessing national defence information about a new classified document "presentation concerning military activity in a foreign country." The document reportedly includes a plan of attack on Iran. A leaked audio suggested that Trump discussed the classified information with biographers at his New Jersey golf club. According to the reports, his trial will be on 20 May 2024. Besides the classified document case, Smith also probed Trump's efforts to remain in office despite losing the elections in 2020, including any role he may have had in prompting the insurrection on 6 January 2021, for which he got impeached but not convicted in the US trial. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Jack Smith? New York prosecutor who became former president Donald Trump's legal nemesis

Special Counsel Jack Smith who recently charged Donald Trump with a third indictment for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, received access to the&nbsp;former president's direct messages, and draft tweets on X, formerly known as Twitter, according to The New York Times&nbsp;report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith got access to the&nbsp;trove of so-called messages earlier this winter but it remains unclear what sort of information those texts contained.&nbsp;

The newly unsealed court papers which contained the transcripts of the proceedings, showed that a lawyer for X, confirmed Judge Howell that the company had turned over&nbsp;“all direct messages, the DMs” to the special counsel's office.&nbsp;

<h2>X and Musk siding with Trump?</h2>

During the February hearings, Judge Howell repeatedly questioned X whether the company's resistance to share the messages reflected then CEO Elon Musk's efforts to side with Trump.&nbsp;

X initially refused to turn over the information, as Justice Department requested to not disclose the request to Trump.&nbsp;DOJ&nbsp;argued that if Trump learnt about the warrant, it&nbsp;“would result in destruction of or tampering with evidence, intimidation of potential witnesses or serious jeopardy to this investigation".

The Musk-owned company put up resistance adding some of Trump’s direct messages might be covered by&nbsp;executive privilege if he was communicating about state business with other administration officials.

Watch:&nbsp;No plea deal for Hunter Biden: Prosecutors&nbsp;

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<h2>X slapped with the fine</h2>

The transcript also showed the frustration that prosecutors had to endure over the opposition from X, with&nbsp;DOJ attorney Thomas Windom complaining about earlier phone calls to address concerns prior to appearing in court.

“I had felt like I had been getting nickeled-and-dimed for the prior 20 minutes of conversation. We need the material. We need it now. We needed it 13 days ago,” he said.

Ultimately, X produced the record but not before it was fined $350,000 for not handing over the data in time.&nbsp;

“DOJ was most interested in communications between government officials and Twitter regarding the subject account,” the&nbsp;lawyer representing X said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-is-donald-trumps-georgia-indictment-different-626154">Also read |&nbsp;Explained: Why is Donald Trump's Georgia indictment different?</a>

Both Smith and Trump have a frosty relationship with each other. After Trump was indicted for the second time in June by the Miami court, he delivered a charged speech where he called Smith a 'thug'.&nbsp;

"I've named him deranged Jack Smith.&nbsp;He does political hit jobs…He looks like a thug," said Trump, adding that Smith was a "raging and uncontrolled Trump hater".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Special Counsel Jack Smith who recently charged Donald Trump with a third indictment for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, received access to the former president's direct messages, and draft tweets on X, formerly known as Twitter, according to The New York Times report.

Special Counsel Jack Smith who recently charged Donald Trump with a third indictment for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, received access to the former president's direct messages, and draft tweets on X, formerly known as Twitter, according to The New York Times report. Smith got access to the trove of so-called messages earlier this winter but it remains unclear what sort of information those texts contained. The newly unsealed court papers which contained the transcripts of the proceedings, showed that a lawyer for X, confirmed Judge Howell that the company had turned over “all direct messages, the DMs” to the special counsel's office. X and Musk siding with Trump? During the February hearings, Judge Howell repeatedly questioned X whether the company's resistance to share the messages reflected then CEO Elon Musk's efforts to side with Trump. X initially refused to turn over the information, as Justice Department requested to not disclose the request to Trump. DOJ argued that if Trump learnt about the warrant, it “would result in destruction of or tampering with evidence, intimidation of potential witnesses or serious jeopardy to this investigation". The Musk-owned company put up resistance adding some of Trump’s direct messages might be covered by executive privilege if he was communicating about state business with other administration officials. Watch: No plea deal for Hunter Biden: Prosecutors × X slapped with the fine The transcript also showed the frustration that prosecutors had to endure over the opposition from X, with DOJ attorney Thomas Windom complaining about earlier phone calls to address concerns prior to appearing in court. “I had felt like I had been getting nickeled-and-dimed for the prior 20 minutes of conversation. We need the material. We need it now. We needed it 13 days ago,” he said. Ultimately, X produced the record but not before it was fined $350,000 for not handing over the data in time. “DOJ was most interested in communications between government officials and Twitter regarding the subject account,” the lawyer representing X said. Also read | Explained: Why is Donald Trump's Georgia indictment different? Both Smith and Trump have a frosty relationship with each other. After Trump was indicted for the second time in June by the Miami court, he delivered a charged speech where he called Smith a 'thug'. "I've named him deranged Jack Smith. He does political hit jobs…He looks like a thug," said Trump, adding that Smith was a "raging and uncontrolled Trump hater". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Special counsel got access to Trump's direct messages, drafts on X, court transcripts reveal

In November last year, veteran prosecutor Jack Smith was appointed to investigate former Donald Trump’s case in which he has been charged on seven counts. Smith, a hard-driving prosecutor who has taken high-stakes cases in the past against politicians, was appointed by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland to oversee two investigations against Trump.

Smith looked into two investigations against the former US president: one, into his attempt to overturn the 2020 election that led up to the 6 January 2021 attack on the Capitol, and the other into Trump’s retention of classified materials at his residence in Florida.&nbsp;

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While announcing the appointment of Smith, Attorney Garland said he made “the right choice to complete these matters in an evenhanded and urgent manner”. Smith had been serving as the top prosecutor investigating war crimes in Kosovo at the International Criminal Court in Hague.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Trump indictment: Former president faces seven charges in classified docs probe

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Many Republicans and Trump himself have accused the Justice Department of pursuing a politically motivated investigation which is intended to destroy Trump’s chances of retaking the White House. But department officials say,&nbsp;Smith, 54, is intent on conducting a fair investigation in secrecy. Smith even refused to acknowledge the questions of reporters who approached him outside his office in Washington.&nbsp;

Smith and his team investigated the case for over seven-month and interviewed former White House officials, Trump aides and Florida-based Mar-a-Lago staff in the classified documents investigation before handing down the decision on Thursday.&nbsp;

<h2>Jack Smith: A career prosecutor&nbsp;</h2>

Born in June 1969, Smith grew up in Clay, New York. He graduated from the State University of New York at Oneonta in 1991 before attending Harvard Law School.&nbsp;

In the 1990s, Smith was a prosecutor in the Manhattan district attorney’s office and soon moved to a similar job at the US attorney’s office in Brooklyn. Over the next decade, he rose to a series of supervisory positions, including chief of criminal litigation, overseeing dozens of prosecutors pursuing cases involving gangs, violent crime, financial fraud and public corruption.&nbsp;

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In 2018, he was appointed chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC).&nbsp;

Garland’s announcement of appointing Smith as special prosecutor overseeing the two federal investigations came days after Trump announced he would again run for president.&nbsp;

<h2>What did&nbsp;Smith’s investigation reveal?</h2>

Recently, Smith has seen meeting with Justice Department lawyers and members of Trump’s defence team, in a sign he would soon hand down a decision. Smith’s team then informed Trump’s lawyers in a letter that the ex-president was a target of the investigation of the documents, as per multiple reports.&nbsp;

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However, Trump had maintained he was unaware of the indictment.&nbsp;

“No one has told me I’m being indicted, and I shouldn’t be because I’ve done NOTHING wrong,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.

But Smith’s investigation proves otherwise. CNN first reported that among the evidence collected by Smith and his team is an audio tape where Trump says he kept a classified document detailing a potential attack on Iran.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In November last year, veteran prosecutor Jack Smith was appointed to investigate former Donald Trump’s case in which he has been charged on seven counts. Smith, a hard-driving prosecutor who has taken high-stakes cases in the past against politicians, was appointed by Attorney General Merrick B.

In November last year, veteran prosecutor Jack Smith was appointed to investigate former Donald Trump’s case in which he has been charged on seven counts. Smith, a hard-driving prosecutor who has taken high-stakes cases in the past against politicians, was appointed by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland to oversee two investigations against Trump. Smith looked into two investigations against the former US president: one, into his attempt to overturn the 2020 election that led up to the 6 January 2021 attack on the Capitol, and the other into Trump’s retention of classified materials at his residence in Florida. Also Read | France knife attack: What do we know about the stabbing suspect so far? While announcing the appointment of Smith, Attorney Garland said he made “the right choice to complete these matters in an evenhanded and urgent manner”. Smith had been serving as the top prosecutor investigating war crimes in Kosovo at the International Criminal Court in Hague. Watch | Trump indictment: Former president faces seven charges in classified docs probe × Many Republicans and Trump himself have accused the Justice Department of pursuing a politically motivated investigation which is intended to destroy Trump’s chances of retaking the White House. But department officials say, Smith, 54, is intent on conducting a fair investigation in secrecy. Smith even refused to acknowledge the questions of reporters who approached him outside his office in Washington. Smith and his team investigated the case for over seven-month and interviewed former White House officials, Trump aides and Florida-based Mar-a-Lago staff in the classified documents investigation before handing down the decision on Thursday. Jack Smith: A career prosecutor Born in June 1969, Smith grew up in Clay, New York. He graduated from the State University of New York at Oneonta in 1991 before attending Harvard Law School. In the 1990s, Smith was a prosecutor in the Manhattan district attorney’s office and soon moved to a similar job at the US attorney’s office in Brooklyn. Over the next decade, he rose to a series of supervisory positions, including chief of criminal litigation, overseeing dozens of prosecutors pursuing cases involving gangs, violent crime, financial fraud and public corruption. Also Read | US Congress to consider two new bills on artificial intelligence In 2018, he was appointed chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Garland’s announcement of appointing Smith as special prosecutor overseeing the two federal investigations came days after Trump announced he would again run for president. What did Smith’s investigation reveal? Recently, Smith has seen meeting with Justice Department lawyers and members of Trump’s defence team, in a sign he would soon hand down a decision. Smith’s team then informed Trump’s lawyers in a letter that the ex-president was a target of the investigation of the documents, as per multiple reports. Also Read | Stop putting up! 'Big Penis USA' pills banned in Australia for containing hidden drug ingredient However, Trump had maintained he was unaware of the indictment. “No one has told me I’m being indicted, and I shouldn’t be because I’ve done NOTHING wrong,” Trump said in a Truth Social post. But Smith’s investigation proves otherwise. CNN first reported that among the evidence collected by Smith and his team is an audio tape where Trump says he kept a classified document detailing a potential attack on Iran. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Trump indictment: Who is Jack Smith? Special Counsel who investigated Trump classified documents case

The veteran prosecutor Jack Smith has been appointed as a special counsel to oversee two key investigations involving the former US President Donald Trump. The investigations are over Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his handling of the classified documents.

US: DOJ appoints Jack Smith as special counsel to oversee two of Donald Trump's key cases

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