In a major legal reprieve for President-elect Donald Trump, the judge in his criminal hush money case has delayed sentencing indefinitely, allowing him to focus on his upcoming presidency.
Trump, convicted in May on 34 felony counts for falsifying business records to hide an alleged affair with a porn star during the 2016 election, was originally scheduled to be sentenced on November 26, 2024.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that prosecutors argued that the concealment aimed to boost his initial presidential bid.
However, Judge Juan Merchan granted a joint request to adjourn the sentencing date, effectively postponing it indefinitely.
Trump’s legal team based their argument on a Supreme Court ruling granting presidents broad immunity from prosecution for official acts.
This development follows Trump’s efforts to dismiss the case entirely, citing this precedent, though prosecutors have contested this move.
Judge Merchan has also granted Trump permission to file a motion to dismiss the conviction, signaling potential further delays.
Legal experts predict prolonged hearings, especially after Trump’s January inauguration, as his presidential status could further complicate proceedings.
Separately, Special Counsel Jack Smith has delayed deadlines in another case related to Trump’s alleged interference in the 2020 election, adhering to Department of Justice policy against prosecuting sitting presidents.
Trump has consistently dismissed the New York hush money case as politically motivated, labeling it a “witch hunt.”
Meanwhile, he faces two additional federal cases related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election and alleged mishandling of classified documents.
As president, Trump would have significant influence over these ongoing cases.
This indefinite delay marks a legal victory for Trump as he prepares to assume the presidency amid ongoing legal challenges.
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