Donald Trump becomes first former US president convicted of felony crimes

Trump is sentenced in hush money case — but gets no penalty or fine

President-elect Donald Trump made history today by becoming the first convicted felon to hold the office of the President of the United States. A New York court upheld his conviction in a hush-money case involving payments to porn star Stormy Daniels. However, the court sentenced him to an “unconditional discharge,” sparing him from jail time or penalties due to his election as the next President.

Conviction without consequences

The ruling means that while Trump has been found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records related to unaccounted payments, he will not face imprisonment or fines. His impending inauguration on January 20 grants him immunity from legal consequences while serving as President. Without this protection, Trump could have faced a four-year jail sentence.

Judge Juan Merchan, delivering the verdict, stated, “The only lawful sentence that permits a judgment of conviction without encroaching on the highest office of the land is an unconditional discharge.” The judge described the situation as unprecedented, emphasizing that the Constitution provides immunity to the President while in office.

Details of the case

The charges stem from payments made to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign to suppress details of an alleged affair. Daniels testified vividly about her encounter with Trump in a Nevada hotel, and multiple witnesses corroborated the fraudulent cover-up of these payments. Despite the potential for jail time, the judge acknowledged that any punishment would infringe upon the constitutional immunity of the presidency.

Trump’s response

Trump participated in the sentencing virtually, fully aware that jail time was unlikely. Hours before the hearing, he criticized the legal proceedings as a politically motivated attack, saying, “This was done to damage my reputation, just so that I may lose the election.” He called the process a “terrible experience” and a “setback for the New York court system.”

Throughout the trial, Trump faced testimony after testimony detailing his efforts to cover up the payments. Witnesses highlighted his attempts to silence Daniels and protect his 2016 campaign from scandal.

Legal hurdles and Supreme Court ruling

Trump had sought to halt the criminal proceedings but faced a significant setback when the US Supreme Court ruled that his sentencing could proceed. The judgment, coming just ten days before his return to the White House for a second term, solidifies his place in history as the first felon to lead the United States.

A unique moment in US history

This verdict highlights the unprecedented nature of Trump’s presidency and the legal protections afforded to the office. While he avoided jail time, the conviction marks a significant chapter in American history, raising questions about the balance between justice and constitutional immunity.

As Trump prepares to assume office once again, his legal troubles serve as a stark reminder of the controversies that continue to define his political career.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post Donald Trump becomes first former US president convicted of felony crimes appeared first on PGurus.