Photography and Filming Prohibited at Trump Trial

Media representatives will be prohibited from bringing mobile phones and other electronic devices into the court building where former U.S. President Donald Trump is set to be charged on June 13, NBC News reports.

“Reporters and other media members are banned from using mobile phones and/or electronic devices inside the U.S. Courthouse in Miami...” stated the ruling by U.S. Chief District Judge Cecilia Altonaga.

At the same time, Federal Magistrate Judge John Goodman rejected a request from a coalition of journalists to allow “a limited number of photographs and videos in the courtroom and/or outside the hall prior to the trial.” He noted that “allowing photography would disrupt the extensive security measures in place during the proceedings.” He mentioned that a transcript of the court session would be provided the same day.

Goodman emphasized that his ruling does not apply to future procedural hearings. “My involvement in this case will almost certainly end tomorrow. (...) Therefore, I do not find it appropriate to make a decision regarding what will happen in future proceedings,” ABC News quoted Goodman’s decision.

Meanwhile, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez stated during a press conference on Monday that the city is prepared to face any protests and demonstrations that might occur during Trump’s first appearance in federal court on Tuesday. He warned commuters on nearby trains that there may be “disruptions” in traffic organization. According to him, roads may be closed if necessary, but authorities do not plan to do so initially.

Former President Trump will appear in court on Tuesday charged with knowingly possessing classified documents. Reportedly, prosecutors have charged Trump with 37 counts related to the illegal retention of classified documents at his personal residence in Florida. Specifically, 31 counts relate to classified documents concerning the U.S. and other countries’ defense systems.