A “probe” or investigation has been on-going into whether former President Donald Trump and those who have been referred to as “his allies” have meddled in the 2020 election in Georgia in a manner to justify criminal prosecution. Fani Willis, the Fulton County District Attorney, stated in a letter to Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat that the decision whether to bring criminal charges against Trump and others may come as early as this July.
As reported, this letter was hand-delivered to Sheriff Labat. The letter allegedly asserts that “the need for vigilance will increase” regarding court security starting this summer. DA Willis acknowledged “several high-profile cases are currently ongoing, but warned Labat she will be announcing charging decisions stemming from the findings of a special grand jury between July 11 and Sept. 1.” Willis cautioned that “heightened security” may be needed during that time.
This letter to Sheriff Labat is reported to contain the following language: “Open-source intelligence has indicated the announcement of decisions in this case may provoke a significant public reaction.” Willis posed ominous predictions, adding: “We have seen in recent years that some may go outside of public expressions of opinion that are protected by the First Amendment to engage in acts of violence that will endanger the safety our community. As leaders, it is incumbent upon us to prepare.”
DA Willis concerned about protecting the public, is urging “a collaboration with her investigative leadership team” and the sheriff’s office to ensure the law enforcement community is prepared to implement its vital role.
The investigation has been on-going for more than two years. “Willis opened the Georgia investigation in early 2021, shortly after a recording of a phone call between Trump and a top state official was made public.” The allegation is made that during that Jan. 2, 2021, phone call, Trump “suggested” that Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger could “find” the votes needed to reverse his narrow loss in the state.
The special grand jury, which was seated in May 2022, heard from about 75 witnesses and considered other evidence before wrapping up its work in December. It did not have the authority to issue indictments but instead produced a report with recommendations for Willis. As reported, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney ordered most of that report to remain sealed. At that time, DA Willis argued that indictments were imminent. What is alleged to be the full recording of the phone conversation between Trump and Raffensperger, comprising one hour and two minutes, can be heard here.
