Donald Trump indicted: What is the Espionage Act and what are the punishments for it?
by Cami Mondeaux, Congressional Reporter |
June 09, 2023 08:27 AM
The Department of Justice has indicted Donald Trump, levying federal charges against the former president over accusations he mishandled classified documents after leaving the White House and thwarted efforts from the government to reclaim them.
Trump announced the indictment on his Truth Social account Thursday night, telling supporters he would surrender to authorities on Tuesday afternoon. The DOJ has yet to announce the indictment publicly or unseal any of the charges against the former president.
Trump reportedly faces a number of charges for his mishandling of classified materials, including the willful retention of national defense secrets, according to the New York Times. Such a move would put Trump in violation of the Espionage Act, a federal law that prohibits interference with the U.S. military.
What charges does Trump face?
Trump faces seven charges in his federal indictment, people familiar with the matter said. However, the scope of the charges and exact details remain unclear.
Among those charges are the unauthorized retention of national security documents and failure to return them to the government. If proven guilty, Trump would be found in violation of the Espionage Act — opening the former president up to a number of charges.
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