The U.S. Supreme Court has decided not to delay Donald Trump’s sentencing in a case involving hush-money payments. Trump had asked the court to postpone the Friday sentencing after New York courts refused to do so.
Court
Judge Juan Merchan oversaw Trump’s trial and conviction last May. Trump was found guilty of 34 felony charges for falsifying business records in a scheme to hide payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election.
These payments were allegedly made to keep Daniels quiet about an affair with Trump.
The Supreme Court voted 5-4 to deny Trump’s request to delay the sentencing. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined three liberal justices to form the majority.
The court explained its decision in a brief order, saying the issues Trump raised could be handled later in appeals and that the sentencing would not significantly interfere with his duties as president-elect.
Judge Merchan has indicated that Trump will likely receive an “unconditional discharge,” meaning he will not face jail time, fines, or probation. However, the conviction will remain on his record, and he will officially be labeled a felon.
FILE PHOTO: Justice Arthur Engoron speaks during the trial of former U.S. President Donald Trump, his adult sons, the Trump Organization and others in a civil fraud case brought by state Attorney General Letitia James, at a Manhattan courthouse, in New York City, U.S., October 3, 2023. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton/Pool/File Photo
Trump had pleaded not guilty and argued that the case was politically motivated. His lawyers claimed the charges were based on false evidence.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s office said Trump falsified records to hide that the payment to Daniels was an illegal campaign contribution, as it violated state election laws.
Following the Supreme Court’s decision, Trump said he found it “fair” but announced plans to appeal.
He expressed confidence that justice would ultimately be served. Trump remains the only U.S. president, current or former, to have been convicted of a crime.
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Source: Guardian
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