Former Donald Trump campaign chair Paul Manafort and his business partner Rick Gates have both turned themselves into federal authorities Monday morning after an indictment was brought forth against them as part of the ongoing Russia probe led by special counsel Robert Mueller.
In total, both Manafort and Gates face 12 counts including conspiracy against the United States, tax fraud and money laundering most of which has been connected to their past relationship with the Ukrainian government.
Below is the entire 31-page indictment:
Click to access manafort-gates_indictment_filed_and_redacted.pdf
Now as far as the indictment itself goes, there is both good news and potential bad news for Donald Trump and anyone involved in his campaign.
First the good news.
Within the entirely of the document, there is no mention whatsoever in regards to the Trump campaign itself. Again, most of the charges brought against Manafort and his associate Rick Gates are business dealings personal in nature.
Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort arrives at the FBI field office in Washington. Live updates: https://t.co/OxFpbsjJqh pic.twitter.com/0EREceYKGA
— CNN International (@cnni) October 30, 2017
However what was revealed today in regards to Manafort and Gates could still very much play a significant role in a possible connection between the Trump campaign and Russia.
For instance the 31-page document contains statements made by Manafort as late as 2016 when he was heading the Trump campaign. Although that may not have any direct relation to the President, it’s certainly going to be a point of inquiry as the Mueller investigation continues.
Second, after Manafort left the Trump campaign, Rick Gates stayed on and continued to have an ongoing association with the White House after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President.
Third, these charges could just be the beginning for a world of trouble for Manafort and Gates. Namely because the statute of limitations on some of the tax crimes stemming from 2010 runs out tomorrow. Because of this it was vital Mueller’s team got to those first before the October 31st deadline. On that note its seems entirely possible we could see more charges filed against the two which may (or may not) have a more direct connection with the Trump campaign and potential Russian connections.
It’s also entirely possible the Manafort and Gates indictments are only the first of what’s to come from Robert Mueller.
Stay tuned.
