Both men have already been convicted of the charges.

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They face charges but haven't been convicted—a critical distinction for constitutional due process. The presumption of innocence means the government must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt before imposing punishment. Defendants have rights to confront witnesses, challenge evidence, present defenses, and appeal. The indictment is merely a grand jury's finding of probable cause, a far lower standard than trial proof. Media coverage often blurs this line, treating indictments as verdicts. Defense attorneys will remind jurors that "charged with" isn't "guilty of"—a defendant's decision not to testify can't be used against them, and prosecutors bear the entire burden of proof.

Both men have already been convicted of the charges.

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