Judge Issues Order to Protect Identities of Jurors in Election Interference Case Against Former President Trump and Co-Defendants

A judge in Fulton County, Georgia has issued an order to protect the identities of jurors in the election interference case against former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants. The order, issued by Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee on Monday, prohibits the drawing or recording of images, statements, or conversations of jurors or prospective jurors.

The order was granted in response to a request from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, and is intended to protect the safety of prospective jurors. Georgia law prioritizes transparency in criminal proceedings, meaning that the names of the grand jurors had been made public.

The order also prohibits the identification of jurors or prospective jurors in any manner, and restricts the use of photographic or electronic equipment without a judge’s consent. Judge McAfee further ordered that jurors and prospective jurors be identified only by their initials and juror numbers.

The election interference case against former President Trump and his co-defendants is a sweeping racketeering case. It is unclear when the trial will begin, but Judge McAfee’s order will remain in effect until the trial ends. The order is intended to ensure that jurors can remain anonymous and safe throughout the proceedings.