A judge in New York has decided to hold Trump’s sentencing just days before he is expected to take office again. Judge Juan M. Merchan indicated that he might not impose any jail time or fines, which could mean the case ends without serious consequences for Trump. He also mentioned that Trump could attend the hearing online due to his duties as president-elect.
Trump was found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet about an alleged affair. Trump denies these claims and insists he did nothing wrong.
Originally, Trump’s sentencing was supposed to happen in July but was postponed multiple times. Now, the judge has ordered him to appear for sentencing on January 10 at 9:30 AM.
The final sentence will depend on what the judge decides, but it could range from a fine or probation to up to four years in prison. However, the judge suggested that a “conditional discharge” might be the most likely outcome, which would close the case without jail time or fines but would still leave the felony conviction on Trump’s record.
Trump’s legal team is trying to have the conviction overturned and has been seeking a federal court’s involvement. They may even appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary. However, they can’t appeal until after the sentencing occurs.
Prosecutors have not commented on the judge’s recent ruling but had previously suggested delaying sentencing until Trump left office or closing the case without jail time.
As for presidential pardons, Trump cannot pardon himself for this state-level conviction, as those only apply to federal crimes.
