The target letter sent to Donald Trump by special prosecutor Jack Smith suggests the former president will be charged with conspiracy, obstruction, and civil rights offenses – but not insurrection or sedition.
Leaks to Rolling Stone indicate that Trump is accused of violating three federal statutes:
- Conspiracy to commit offense or to defraud the United States;
- Deprivation of rights under color of law;
- Tampering with a witness, victim, or an informant.
The target letter does not explain how Trump, who was told he must report to a grand jury by Thursday, is supposed to have violated these statutes.
While Trump’s critics have often accused the 45th President of having incited the “insurrection” on January 6th there are reportedly no allusions to insurrection and sedition charges in the target letter.
Trump believes he will almost certainly be arrested and indicted when he appears.