President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced Friday morning for falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during the 2016 election. The case, which concluded just 10 days before his second term in the White House begins, makes Trump a convicted felon.
Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan imposed an unconditional discharge, a sentence that carries no penalties, fines, or jail time. This outcome closes the case that originated in spring 2023, centered on accusations of hush money payments to a porn star during Trump’s initial presidential campaign.
Though Trump faced the potential for jail time, his election in November 2024 eliminated that possibility. In his remarks, Justice Merchan noted the leniency was legally required under the circumstances but emphasized that “Donald Trump the ordinary citizen – Donald Trump the criminal defendant – would not be entitled to such considerable protections.”
Trump appeared remotely during the sentencing hearing held on the 15th floor of Manhattan’s 100 Centre Street courthouse. Outside, dozens of reporters braved early-morning cold to witness the historic event.
The case, which captured international attention, revolved around falsified business records meant to conceal payments to silence allegations during the 2016 presidential campaign. The conviction cements Trump’s legal troubles even as he prepares to assume the presidency once again.
As Trump prepares for his second term, the implications of his conviction are likely to shape the political and public discourse in the months and years to come.
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