Trump Calls for Contempt Charges Against Special Counsel Jack Smith in January 6 Case

Donald Trump's legal team informed a federal judge on Thursday that they believe special counsel Jack Smith and his prosecutors should face serious sanctions and potential contempt charges for repeatedly filing documents in the case despite a stay order from the judge. Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the Washington, DC, election subversion case, had placed a temporary halt on the case after Trump appealed her decision to dismiss his argument that presidential immunity shields him from prosecution.

Trump's attorneys emphasized that the Stay Order, although clear and straightforward, was violated by the prosecutors almost immediately. Therefore, they have requested the court to issue an order for Smith and the prosecutors to explain why they should not be held in contempt, forced to withdraw their filings, and prohibited from submitting any further filings. Additionally, they are seeking an explanation as to why Smith and his office should not face monetary sanctions to cover some of Trump's attorney fees.

Trump's legal team filed a request for sanctions, arguing that the prosecutors were operating lawlessly and defying established protocol and the authority of the court. The attorneys stated that the requested sanctions were appropriate and likely to prevent further transgressions, with the possibility of more severe sanctions, such as dismissal of the action, if necessary. Smith's office declined to comment on the filing.

Trump is charged with four counts, including conspiring to defraud the United States and obstructing an official proceeding. The former president has pleaded not guilty. Additionally, his attorneys claimed in the filing that Smith's team used the stay to "spread political propaganda."

This story has been updated with additional information.