Trump Convicted in Manhattan Case
Historic Verdict
A Manhattan jury has found former President Donald Trump guilty on all counts for falsifying business records to hide payments made to suppress damaging stories about him. This marks the first time a former president has been convicted of felony charges.
Trump’s Reaction
In his response to the verdict, Trump labeled the trial a “disgrace” and claimed it was “rigged.” He stated:
The real verdict is going to be November 5th by the people. We didn’t do a thing wrong. I’m a very innocent man.
Trump also accused the Biden administration of being behind the trial, despite the charges being brought by the Manhattan district attorney’s office, an independent local authority. His campaign’s X account posted an image of Trump with his fist raised and the words “NEVER SURRENDER,” linking to his campaign site.
Courtroom Observations
Reporters from CNN and The New York Times noted a shift in Trump’s demeanor from lighthearted to serious upon learning a verdict had been reached.
Details of the Case
Allegations and Witnesses
This case is one of several federal and state cases Trump is currently facing while attempting to return to the White House. Prosecutors claimed that the Trump Organization reimbursed his former lawyer Michael Cohen for hush money payments to porn actor Stormy Daniels to prevent her from publicizing a story about her and Trump. Key witnesses included Daniels, Cohen, and David Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer, who helped arrange the deal with Daniels.
Charges and Legal Implications
Trump faced 34 counts of falsifying business records. The case was treated as a felony because Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg alleged Trump committed the crime with the intent to conceal another crime, such as violating federal campaign finance laws or state election law, though he was not directly charged with those crimes.
Trial Conduct and Future Legal Battles
Gag Order Violations
During the trial, Trump violated a gag order multiple times, leading the judge to threaten him with jail time. At other moments, he appeared more subdued, with reports noting he seemed to fall asleep and jerk awake.
Upcoming Legal Challenges
Trump’s future legal issues include cases involving his retention of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago and alleged election interference in Georgia.
Sentencing
Trump is scheduled to be sentenced in the Manhattan case on July 11th.
1 Comment
You think that’s the end of his career?