Jack Smith is not playing around.

  • Thugosaurus_Rex@beehaw.org
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    7
    ·
    1 year ago

    The takeaway here is that he’s actually received a Target Letter, which indicates a strong belief that there is substantial evidence against him and that criminal charges are being seriously considered. It’s a procedural step, and one that many people likely inferred, but it is important and shows a concrete stance on the investigation. It’s worth noting that “Target” is a specifically defined legal term in this context, on relevant part:

    A “target” is a person as to whom the prosecutor or the grand jury has substantial evidence linking him or her to the commission of a crime and who, in the judgment of the prosecutor, is a putative defendant…

    USAM 9-11.151

    • Pete Hahnloser@beehaw.org
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      1 year ago

      The hed construction is nonetheless really weird. “Claims” is a pretty standard Trump-hed verb, but it’s inappropriate here. Throwing “target” in quotes additionally serves to cast doubt on a very straightforward piece of news.