Former President Trump Receives Another Target Letter

Former President Donald Trump received a second target letter from the United States Justice Department. This letter is related to the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. A target letter is the method by which the Justice Department places an individual on notice that the prosecutors believe that there is sufficient evidence of a crime to present the case to a grand jury for formal indictment. In Mr. Trump’s case, he could be facing a new criminal indictment for the following possible charges. First, Obstructing an Official Proceeding, relating to the Congressional session to certify Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory. This is a felony offense punishable up to 20 years in prison. Second, Conspiracy to Make False Statements, relating to false election fraud claims. This is a lower level felony punishable up to 5 years in prison. Finally, Mr. Trump could be facing the charges of Wire and Mail Fraud, for allegedly persuading donors to contribute money needed to fight election fraud, even though Mr. Trump had been repeatedly told that there was no evidence to support those claims. This felony carries up to 20 years in prison. It is important to remember that simply because a target letter is sent, that does not automatically mean that charges will be filed. However, it is a strong indicator of that.