01/10/2025

Judge Sentences Donald Trump in Hush Money Case

However, he declined to impose any punishment

On Friday, President-elect Donald Trump was formally sentenced in his hush money case; however, the judge declined to impose any punishment. The outcome cements Trump’s conviction while freeing him to return to the White House unencumbered by the threat of a jail term or a fine.

Manhattan Judge Juan Merchan could have sentenced the 78-year-old to up to four years in prison. Instead, he chose a sentence that sidestepped thorny constitutional issues by effectively ending the case but assured that Trump will become the first person convicted of a felony to assume the presidency.

During the hearing, Trump said his criminal trial and conviction has "been a very terrible experience" and insisted he committed no crime.

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Associated Press.