A Fulton County, Georgia, grand jury has issued 10 indictments in the criminal investigation into former President Donald Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The indictments were returned under Georgia’s RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act, which allows prosecutors to link crimes committed by different individuals toward a common goal. This strategy makes it challenging for defense attorneys to develop a coherent trial strategy.
The charges are believed to be related to Trump’s alleged attempts to overturn the election results in Georgia. The Fulton County District Attorney, Fani Willis, has been leading the investigation. The RICO Act’s severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, can incentivize co-defendants to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for providing new evidence.
One significant aspect is that Georgia’s governor does not possess the power to pardon convicts; this authority lies with the Board of Pardons and Paroles. Moreover, the requirement for a sentence to be completed at least five years before applying for a pardon makes it unlikely for convicts to seek early pardons. As a result, even if Trump were to be convicted, a U.S. president would not be able to pardon him in this case.
The case’s proceedings may also be televised, allowing the public to witness the evidence presented during the trial. The grand jury reportedly moved forward with all the indictments presented by the district attorney’s team, indicating their support for the charges brought against individuals involved in the alleged efforts to overturn the election results.