Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been sentenced to “unconditional discharge” following his conviction on 34 counts related to hush money payments to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels.
The ruling, delivered in a New York courtroom, spares Trump from jail time, probation, or financial penalties.
Trump appeared via video link, sitting stony-faced beside his lawyer. The sentencing followed a high-profile trial that captivated the nation, culminating in a conviction last May for falsifying business records tied to payments made during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, described it as “extraordinary” due to the intense public scrutiny but emphasized that the court proceedings themselves were “ordinary.” He accepted the prosecution’s recommendation for no further punishment, citing the unique circumstances surrounding the case.
“This has been a terrible experience,” Trump said after the verdict. “I am totally innocent.” His attorney echoed the sentiment, arguing that the charges should never have been filed in the first place.
The case revolved around allegations that Trump orchestrated payments to Daniels to buy her silence about an alleged affair. The payments were later reimbursed through his company, with prosecutors alleging that the records were falsified to conceal their true purpose.
The sentencing marks the end of a legal chapter that has dogged Trump’s post-presidency and adds to his complicated legacy. While spared further legal consequences in this case, Trump still faces other investigations and lawsuits, including a federal probe into efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
Chioma Kalu
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