Donald Trump Sentencing Set for January 10 But Judge Signals No Jail Time
Donald Trump is scheduled to face sentencing on January 10 in his New York hush-money case, just days before he is set to take the oath of office as president.
New York Judge Juan Merchan announced that Trump will receive an “unconditional discharge,” sparing him jail time, probation, or fines. Trump may attend the sentencing either in person or virtually.
The case stems from Trump’s May conviction on 34 felony charges of falsifying business records. These charges are linked to a $130,000 payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election to silence claims of an alleged affair. The funds were reimbursed to his former attorney, Michael Cohen.
Despite his conviction, Trump denies wrongdoing, insisting the case is a politically motivated attempt to derail his 2024 campaign.
Trump’s legal team has slammed the judge’s decision, calling the case “lawless” and demanding its dismissal. His spokesperson, Steven Cheung, labeled the sentencing part of a continued “witch hunt” aimed at obstructing Trump’s presidential duties.
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The former president previously argued that the case violated presidential immunity and would hinder his ability to govern. However, Judge Merchan declined to overturn the verdict, offering alternative solutions like delaying sentencing until the end of Trump’s term or ensuring a non-prison sentence.
This case adds to Trump’s growing legal challenges, which include three other state and federal indictments involving classified documents and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.
If no appeals succeed, Trump will become the first convicted felon to serve as U.S. president. Legal experts have suggested that, given his age and circumstances, jail time remains unlikely despite the maximum penalty for falsifying business records being four years.
Trump’s sentencing date was postponed from November 26 following his presidential victory.
Donald Trump Sentencing Set for January 10 But Judge Signals No Jail Time
