Donald Trump was sentenced to an unconditional discharge on Friday in connection with the hush money payments scandal, avoiding prison time or fines despite his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records.
The charges, which stemmed from efforts to conceal payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election campaign, carried the potential for jail time, but Judge Juan Merchan opted for the least severe punishment, citing the unique nature of the case.
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Trump, who attended the virtual sentencing, denounced the case as an effort to damage his reputation and interfere with his political career, calling it a “terrible experience” and “a tremendous setback for New York.” He claimed the prosecution was politically motivated to undermine his chances in the election.
The conviction followed a trial where witnesses testified about the fraudulent nature of the hush money arrangement, aimed at preventing Daniels from revealing an affair with Trump.
Despite Trump’s attempts to delay the sentencing, the New York Supreme Court ruled in favor of moving forward. The sentence of an unconditional discharge means Trump won’t face additional penalties, but his conviction remains in place, cementing his status as the first former president convicted of a felony.
Trump’s legal team had argued for a delay, but the judge proceeded with sentencing, with the prosecutor emphasizing that Trump’s actions were deliberate and deceptive.
The legal fallout continues as Trump prepares for his second presidential term, with his supporters and critics both gathering outside the courthouse to express their views.
