Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has been ordered to pay over $54,000 in legal fees after a judge ruled that her office violated Georgia’s open records law in the high-profile case against Donald Trump.
The ruling, issued by Superior Court Judge Rachel Krause, states that Willis intentionally failed to provide key documents requested by attorney Ashleigh Merchant, who sought to have Willis removed from the Trump case.
What Led to This Decision?
The controversy revolves around Nathan Wade, a former special assistant district attorney who resigned after revelations of a romantic relationship with Willis.
Merchant, representing one of Trump’s co-defendants, argued that Willis and Wade may have financially benefited from his appointment as a prosecutor. Seeking clarity, she filed public records requests regarding Wade’s employment. However, Willis’ office did not comply, leading to the court ruling.
Court Finds ‘Intentional’ Violations
According to Judge Krause’s decision, Willis’ office, through Open Records custodian Dexter Bond, was hostile and uncooperative toward Merchant’s legal team.
The court found that Bond refused to communicate with Merchant about her requests, despite normally reaching out to requestors for clarification. The ruling states that these actions were “intentional, not done in good faith, and substantially groundless and vexatious.”
Legal and Political Fallout
The ruling adds another layer of controversy to the already highly politicized Trump election interference case. Critics argue that Willis’ actions have further damaged the credibility of the prosecution.
Meanwhile, Georgia lawmakers have now been given the power to subpoena Willis for more information regarding her handling of the Trump case.
Merchant celebrated the court’s decision on social media, posting that she was “proud that we have judges willing to hold people in power accountable when they ignore the law!”
The ruling is a significant moment in the legal battle surrounding Trump’s 2020 election case, as the DA’s conduct comes under increased scrutiny.
