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President-elect Donald Trump’s efforts to dismiss his conviction in the hush money case were rejected on Friday by Judge Juan Merchan, who announced Trump’s sentencing will take place on January 10, ten days before his inauguration as the 47th president of the United States.
Trump, who was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, can appear for sentencing either in person or virtually. Judge Merchan indicated he would not impose jail time, citing legal and practical considerations, and suggested an “unconditional discharge” as the most viable sentencing option.
Judge’s Decision on Sentencing
In his ruling, Judge Merchan emphasized the court’s obligation to maintain public trust in the legal system, writing:
“To vacate this verdict on the grounds that the charges are insufficiently serious given the position Defendant once held, and is about to assume again, would constitute a disproportionate result and cause immeasurable damage to the citizenry’s confidence in the Rule of Law.”
While incarceration is legally permissible for the charges, the prosecution acknowledged it was not a practicable recommendation. The judge expressed his inclination to impose a sentence allowing Trump to pursue appeals without further penalties, such as fines or probation.
Conviction Background
The charges stem from a hush money payment made by Trump’s then-attorney, Michael Cohen, to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the final days of the 2016 presidential campaign. Jurors unanimously found Trump guilty of falsifying business records to conceal payments and promote his election through unlawful means.
Judge Merchan described the crime as a “premeditated and continuous deception by the leader of the free world” and refused to vacate the jury’s verdict.
Trump’s Response
Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung denounced the ruling, claiming it violated constitutional principles and Supreme Court precedents on presidential immunity. He declared,
“This lawless case should have never been brought, and the Constitution demands that it be immediately dismissed.”
Cheung affirmed Trump’s intention to continue fighting the conviction, describing it as a “hoax.”
Timing and Alternatives
The judge acknowledged the unusual timing of the sentencing, which comes shortly before Trump assumes office. Merchan considered delaying sentencing until after Trump’s term, a suggestion proposed by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office but deemed less desirable.
“If the Court is unable to impose sentence before Defendant takes his oath of office, then this may become the only viable option,” Merchan wrote.
The Manhattan DA’s office declined to comment.
Next Steps
It remains unclear whether Trump will attend the January 10 sentencing, either in person or virtually. As the legal and political ramifications of the case unfold, the proceedings are likely to draw significant public and media attention.
