The case in Georgia is distinctly different from Trump’s previous three legal challenges, where he managed to avoid public photographs, handcuffs, or being captured on camera in the courtroom.
Fulton County authorities in Atlanta have emphasized that Donald Trump will undergo the usual legal procedures like any other defendant in their jurisdiction. This means Trump will have a public booking photo and the possibility of a broadcasted trial.
This approach is notably different from Trump’s earlier legal encounters, where he sidestepped public booking photographs, with proceedings mostly occurring in jurisdictions that prohibit live court broadcasts.
Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat recently remarked that standard practices will be followed irrespective of the individual’s prominence.
While the historic presidential booking might not be immediate, officials have set a deadline for Trump to willingly present himself to the Georgia authorities by noon on Aug. 25. This follows his and 18 others’ indictment on multiple charges, including racketeering, earlier this week.
If local policies remain consistent, Trump will be transferred to the primary county jail near downtown Atlanta, located close to Bankhead, a neighborhood renowned for its contribution to hip-hop.
According to Fulton County’s guidelines, upon arrival at the jail, individuals usually undergo medical checks, fingerprinting, and warrant assessments before their booking photos are taken. Following this, they await their court appearance. As per the protocol, those who remain in custody will appear in court within 24 hours of their arrest, and if apprehended over the weekend, they’ll be presented in court the following Monday.
Judge Robert McBurney of Fulton County and other officials have reiterated that Trump will experience standard procedures. The Judge permitted cameras during Trump’s recent indictment announcement, suggesting this might be common for the upcoming sessions.
Josh Schiffer, an attorney from Atlanta, stated that Georgia courts generally permit media presence unless there’s a need to shield the identities of the individuals involved.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump hinted he might delay his voluntary appearance in Atlanta, mentioning a significant press briefing he plans to host in Bedminster, New Jersey, where he anticipates complete vindication.
Trump was fingerprinted in his past three legal challenges in New York, Florida, and D.C., yet he wasn’t handcuffed. In these cases, existing images of Trump were used instead of fresh booking photos. It remains unclear if Trump will be handcuffed during this process in Georgia.
In one of his previous legal challenges in Manhattan, photos were allowed inside the courtroom during his arraignment. However, in the federal court sessions, such media access was restricted.
Fulton County’s District Attorney Fani Willis, who has faced criticism from Trump, indicted him along with several associates for allegedly attempting to reverse the 2020 election results in Georgia.
Those indicted with Trump include former lawyers like Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, and Sidney Powell, and his ex-chief of staff, Mark Meadows.
These charges are rooted in a comprehensive investigation initiated by Willis, focusing on alleged efforts by Trump and his team to challenge President Joe Biden’s surprising victory in Georgia.
