Five key takeaways from Donald Trump indictment over mishandling of classified documents

Here’s all you need to know about Friday’s indictment accusing former US President Donald Trump of mishandling classified government documents and then conspiring to obstruct a federal investigation of the serious matter.

He retained documents on military after leaving White House

According to the indictment, Donald Trump kept several classified documents in his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, which comprised information on countries’ defence and weapon capabilities, plans for potential retaliation in case of foreign attacks, and US nuclear programmes.

He shared classified information with others

The politician allegedly informed a writer during a July 2021 interview about a “plan of attack” that a military official had drawn up against another country. He called the information “highly confidential”. The conversation at his Bedminster Club in New Jersey was recorded.

He tried to hide documents in his possession

After receiving a subpoena last year in May, requiring Trump to produce all classified documents in his possession, he allegedly conspired with his aide Walt Nauta to remove 64 boxes of documents from the Florida club’s storage room to his residence.

Before his lawyer conducted a search of the storage room in response to the subpoena on June 2, Nauta spoke with Trump and then moved 30 of those boxes back to the club.

He kept classified documents in shower

One photograph included in the indictment showed documents being stored in a bathroom and shower at Mar-a-Lago, where gatherings and events took place.

Another photograph showed boxes allegedly containing documents with classified markings being stored in a bathroom at the club.

He was aware of the importance of classified material

Friday’s indictment included statements the politician had made during his presidency and election campaign, indicating he was well aware of the importance of handling classified documents in the right way.