Special counsel's target letter to Trump reveals possible charges in 2020 election probe

Special Counsel's Target Letter to Trump Reveals Possible Charges in 2020 Election Probe Summary: - CBS News confirms potential federal charges against former President Donald Trump related to overturning the 2020 election. - The grand jury investigating January 6th could potentially indict Trump based on the target letter sent by Special Counsel Jack Smith. - The target letter references several statutes that could form the basis of criminal charges against Trump. Lead: CBS News has obtained information on the potential federal charges being considered against former President Donald Trump in connection with his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. A target letter sent by Special Counsel Jack Smith to the former President refers to several statutes that could lay the groundwork for criminal charges. As the grand jury investigating the events of January 6th continues to meet, there are speculations that they might return to the federal courthouse in Washington with a potential indictment against Trump. Body: The target letter received by Trump's legal team includes references to several statutes that could lead to criminal charges if proven true in court. The potential charges are as follows: 1. Conspiracy to defraud the United States: This charge alleges that Trump conspired to undermine the integrity of the election process, an offense that carries serious legal consequences. 2. Deprivation of rights under color of law: This statute applies when someone uses their position of power to deny constitutional rights, suggesting that Trump may have violated the rights of others during his attempts to overturn the election. 3. Witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding: These charges are related to the events of January 6th when a violent mob stormed the Capitol during the electoral count. The charge has already been applied to more than 300 riot defendants in previous cases. Despite the potential legal challenges ahead, Trump remains defiant, as evidenced by a new campaign video in which he vehemently criticizes the prosecution. He refers to his situation as "the final battle," indicating that he intends to vigorously defend himself against any charges brought against him. This potential indictment would mark the third criminal case against the former President. On a related note, Trump faced a different legal setback in New York, where a judge ruled against granting him a new trial in a civil case. In that case, Trump was found liable for sexual abuse against writer E. Gene Carroll. Ending: As the investigation and legal battles continue, the prospect of criminal charges against former President Donald Trump remains uncertain. The grand jury's decision and the outcome of any potential trial will undoubtedly be closely watched by the nation, as it could have significant implications for the future of Trump's political legacy. CBS News will continue to follow this developing story closely.