Former President Donald Trump has surrendered at the federal courthouse in Washington, facing his third criminal indictment this year. The charges revolve around the events of January 6, 2021, when rioters attempted an insurrection at the US Capitol building. Trump is accused of conspiracy to defraud the US government and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding.
During the hearing, three police officers who defended the Capitol against the rioters were present. Trump is expected to plead not guilty at the E. Barrett Prettyman courthouse in Washington DC. Security measures, including metal barriers, have been put in place around the courthouse.
Trump has called for the case to be moved out of Washington DC, claiming it is impossible to get a fair trial there. He suggests an “impartial venue” like the nearby state of West Virginia. This is the third criminal case brought against Trump in recent months, with other charges in New York and Florida.
The arraignment will be handled by US Magistrate Judge Moxila Upadyaha, with the case presided over by US District Judge Tanya Chutkan in the future.
