The court’s vote against the “obstruction” convictions could affect lawsuits brought by federal prosecutors against the Capitol intruders. Not everyone who stormed the Capitol intended to destroy official documents.
But according to the Public Prosecution, the ruling does not mean that all the intruders will be suddenly released. Almost all Americans who have been charged also have felonies and other offenses on their records. Joseph Fisher, the man who filed the lawsuit, faced six other charges, including “disorderly conduct at the Capitol” and “use of force against a federal officer.” However, it is possible that about 25 people were released early because obstruction was the only crime they committed.
Donald Trump was also accused of obstructing the investigation into his role in the storming of the Capitol. However, Jack Smith, the special prosecutor in the case, indicated that the court’s ruling would have little impact on his case. Trump is alleged to have corruptly interfered with evidence in the form of voting certificates that Vice President Mike Pence was required to count. Therefore, the “obstruction” charge is still valid in the former president’s case, prosecutors allege.
“Lifelong food practitioner. Zombie geek. Explorer. Reader. Subtly charming gamer. Entrepreneur. Devoted analyst.”
More Stories
The Supreme Court partly agrees with Trump on immunity: The president has immunity for his actions within his office
What does it mean for the Netherlands that Rutte becomes NATO president? And other questions answered
28 main suspects in Panama’s tax evasion scandal have been acquitted