After denying 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, Trump left for Florida to speak to his supporters.
- Donald Trump Charged with 34 Felony Counts in Historic Hush-Money Case
On Tuesday, former US President Donald Trump was charged with 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records in connection with alleged hush-money payments to adult film actor Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal. Prosecutors in Manhattan accused Trump of attempting to conceal a violation of election laws during his successful 2016 presidential campaign. This marks the first time a sitting or former US president has faced criminal charges, making the case a historic one.
- Trump Pleads Not Guilty to Felony Charges in 2024 Republican Nomination Race
Despite facing 34 felony charges related to falsifying business records in connection with hush-money payments, former President Donald Trump maintains his position as a frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination. In court, Trump appeared subdued and offered brief responses when prompted by the judge. At one point, the judge had to remind Trump to respond, but he made no comment when he left court almost an hour later, maintaining his plea of not guilty.
- Trump Falsely Describes NY Prosecution as Election Interference
Former President Donald Trump returned to his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, following his court appearance and used the opportunity to address family, friends, and supporters. During his speech, Trump delivered a litany of grievances against investigators, prosecutors, and rival politicians, falsely describing the New York prosecution as election interference. Trump remained defiant and dismissed the allegations as political persecution.
- Trump Accused of Falsifying Business Records to Undermine 2016 Presidential Election
During the court proceedings against former President Donald Trump, prosecutor Chris Conroy alleged that Trump had falsified New York business records in an attempt to conceal an illegal conspiracy to undermine the integrity of the 2016 presidential election, among other election law violations. While falsifying business records in New York is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, the charges against Trump have been elevated to a felony due to their connection to other crimes, such as election law violations, which can result in up to four years in prison.
- Attorney General Alvin Bragg Defends Charges Against Trump
After the arraignment, Attorney General Alvin Bragg defended the charges during a press conference. Bragg emphasized the importance of upholding the principle that everyone is equal before the law, regardless of wealth or power. He stated that no amount of money or influence could undermine this enduring American principle, and that the charges against Trump were a necessary step in upholding justice and accountability.
- Trump’s Lawyer Vows to Fight Felony Charges with Vigor
Following Trump’s arraignment, his lawyer Todd Blanche told reporters that they were prepared to fight the charges with all their might. While acknowledging that Trump was frustrated, upset, and angry about the charges, Blanche also stated that Trump was motivated and undeterred. Despite the seriousness of the charges, Blanche asserted that the legal proceedings would not stop or slow Trump down, as he had anticipated facing legal challenges as part of his political journey.
- Judge Warns Trump to Avoid Inflammatory Comments During Legal Proceedings
During court proceedings, Justice Juan Merchan refrained from imposing a gag order. However, the judge warned Trump to avoid making comments that could be inflammatory or potentially incite civil unrest. The prosecution cited several examples of social media posts made by Trump, including one in which he threatened “death and destruction” if he was charged. If convicted of any of the 34 felony charges, Trump could face a maximum of four years in prison.
- Next Hearing in Trump’s Case Set for December, Trial May Take Up to a Year
The judge set the next hearing for December 4th. Legal experts speculate that the trial may not even begin until a year from now. An indictment or conviction would not legally prevent Trump from running for president. While the legal proceedings will likely continue to draw significant attention, the ultimate outcome remains uncertain.
- No Official Mugshot of Trump Taken, Campaign Creates Own Image for Fundraising
Contrary to widespread speculation, two law enforcement officials confirmed that no official mugshot of former President Donald Trump was taken during his arraignment on 34 felony charges related to falsifying business records. However, the Trump campaign created their own image of Trump’s supposed mugshot, which they used on a T-shirt as part of a fundraising effort. The image drew criticism from some who felt it was inappropriate to profit from a serious legal matter.