Georgia Judge Rejects Mark Meadows' Bid to Move Racketeering Case to Federal Court
Federal Judge Concludes Former Trump Chief of Staff's Actions Warrant State Prosecution
Obama Appointee Issues 49-Page Order Denying Meadows' Request
Atlanta, GA - In a significant setback for former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, U.S. District Judge Steve Jones of the Northern District of Georgia has denied his motion to move a racketeering case against him from state court to federal court.
In a 49-page order issued today, Judge Jones found that Meadows failed to establish any of the criteria that would justify a transfer under the federal removal statute. Specifically, the judge found that Meadows' alleged actions in connection with a larger scheme to undermine the 2020 election were not "substantially related" to any federal laws.
Notably, Judge Jones relied heavily on Meadows' own testimony in reaching his decision. In a deposition given last month, Meadows admitted to speaking to key witnesses in the Georgia election investigation and attempting to influence the administration of the election.
The ruling represents a major victory for prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia, who are investigating Meadows' alleged role in an effort to overturn the election results in the state. The racketeering case, which was brought in February, accuses Meadows of conspiracy, solicitation, and racketeering activity in connection with the alleged scheme.
Meadows' attorneys have vowed to appeal the decision, arguing that the federal courts are the proper venue for the case. However, legal experts say that Jones' detailed and well-reasoned order makes it unlikely that an appellate court will overturn his ruling.
The case against Meadows is one of several high-profile investigations into the events surrounding the 2020 election. The January 6th Committee has also been investigating Meadows' role in the Capitol riots, and the House Select Committee on the January 6th Attack has subpoenaed him for documents and testimony.
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