Trump NY Case
Trump found guilty on all counts in hush-money case
This verdict marks the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted on criminal charges.
In a historic and unprecedented verdict, former President Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush-money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The verdict, delivered by a Manhattan jury on Thursday, marks the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted on criminal charges.
The charges stem from a $130,000 payment made to Daniels in the final weeks of the 2016 presidential campaign to prevent her from going public with her claim of a sexual encounter with Trump a decade earlier. Trump has consistently denied the affair and any wrongdoing, labeling the trial a "rigged" and politically motivated attack.
The jury, composed of seven men and five women, deliberated for just over nine hours across two days before reaching their unanimous decision. The trial, which lasted six weeks, featured testimony from 22 witnesses, including former Trump attorney Michael Cohen and Daniels herself. Cohen, who facilitated the payment to Daniels, was a key witness for the prosecution, providing detailed accounts of the reimbursement scheme that Trump allegedly orchestrated to conceal the payment as legal expenses.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the case against Trump, praised the jury's diligence and commitment. "We should all be thankful for the careful attention that this jury paid to the evidence and the law, and their time and commitment over these past several weeks," Bragg said in a post-verdict news conference. He emphasized that the trial was conducted like any other, "by following the facts and the law, and doing so without fear or favor."
The defense, led by attorney Robert Costello, attempted to discredit Cohen's testimony, arguing that Cohen acted independently and without Trump's knowledge. However, the prosecution presented substantial documentary evidence, including checks signed by Trump, invoices, and ledger entries, which supported Cohen's claims.
Trump's reaction to the verdict was swift and defiant. In a fundraising email sent moments after the verdict was read, he declared, "I AM A POLITICAL PRISONER!" He reiterated his stance to reporters outside the courtroom, calling the trial "a disgrace" and asserting his innocence. "This was a rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt," Trump said. "The real verdict is going to be Nov. 5 by the people, and they know what happened here."
The sentencing, scheduled for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention, will be determined by Justice Juan Merchan. While falsifying business records carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison, legal experts suggest that Trump, given the nonviolent nature of the crime and his lack of prior convictions, may face alternative penalties such as home confinement, probation, or fines.
The political ramifications of the verdict are significant. Trump, who is the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election, remains defiant and continues to campaign. His supporters, including prominent Republican figures, have denounced the verdict as a "travesty of justice" and a politically motivated attack. House Speaker Mike Johnson called the trial "a purely political exercise, not a legal one."
Despite the conviction, Trump is legally permitted to continue his presidential campaign. His daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, indicated that even if Trump were sentenced to home confinement, he would adapt by conducting virtual rallies and campaign events.
The case is one of several legal challenges facing Trump. He is also under investigation for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and for his handling of classified documents after leaving office. None of these cases are expected to go to trial before the 2024 election.
The verdict has sparked a wide range of reactions. Michael Cohen, who has been a central figure in the case, celebrated the outcome, stating, "Today is an important day for accountability and the rule of law. While it has been a difficult journey for me and my family, the truth always matters."
Stormy Daniels, whose testimony was pivotal, expressed relief that the case had concluded. Her attorney, Clark Brewster, emphasized the importance of the jury's service, stating, "No man is above the law, and the selfless hardworking service of each of these jurors should be respected and appreciated."
As the legal and political battles continue, the historic nature of this conviction underscores the profound implications for the American political landscape and the rule of law. The coming months will reveal the full impact of this landmark decision on Trump's political future and the broader electoral process.