- Trump classified documents case dismissed by Florida judge
- Judge ruled that the appointment of special prosecutor Jack Smith violated the US Constitution’s Appointments Clause
- The case involved dozens of classified files found at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida after he left the White House
- The decision is controversial and is expected to be overturned on appeal, but it introduces delays that could impact the presidential campaign
Trump classified documents case dismissed by Florida judge
A Florida judge has dismissed the US Justice Department’s classified documents case against Donald Trump, marking a significant victory for the former president. Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that the appointment of special prosecutor Jack Smith violated the US Constitution’s Appointments Clause. This decision follows Trump’s not-guilty plea to charges related to his handling of classified documents.
The case involved dozens of classified files found at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida after he left the White House. Judge Cannon’s 93-page order stated that the prosecution breached constitutional principles concerning the appointment and funding of officials. The Justice Department has announced plans to appeal the ruling.
Trump faced multiple felony counts, accused of retaining classified documents and obstructing the investigation. His lawyers did not seek to dismiss a separate case concerning alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The decision by Judge Cannon has been described as controversial and is expected to be overturned on appeal, but it introduces delays that could impact Trump’s ongoing presidential campaign.
NEW – A Federal Judge in Florida has DISMISSED the case against former U.S. President Donald Trump and his aide for retaining classified documents after left the White House. pic.twitter.com/Xod6ICydKB
— Alex Tiffin (@RespectIsVital) July 15, 2024