A New York state appeals court has upheld a gag order preventing Donald Trump from commenting on his criminal case involving hush money payments, reinforcing the restrictions imposed by Justice Juan Merchan. On Thursday, the Appellate Division in Manhattan dismissed Donald Trump's challenge to the gag order in his hush money criminal case. The decision maintains that Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, cannot publicly discuss individual prosecutors and others involved in the case until his sentencing on September 18.
Background
The gag order, implemented by Justice Juan Merchan, was established to prevent Trump from making threatening statements that could disrupt the trial. Initially, it barred Trump from commenting on prosecutors, court staff, witnesses, and jurors. The restrictions on witnesses and jurors were lifted after the trial concluded in June.
Legal arguments
Trump's legal team argued that the gag order infringed on his First Amendment rights. However, the appeals court upheld the order, emphasising the need to protect individuals from potential threats and harassment. The court previously supported Merchan's original order in May, rejecting Trump's free speech defence.
Case details
Trump was found guilty on May 30 of falsifying business records to conceal $130,000 payments made by his former lawyer Michael Cohen to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. These payments were intended to buy her silence regarding an alleged sexual encounter with Trump before the 2016 election, which Trump has denied.
Future actions
Trump has announced his intention to appeal the conviction following his sentencing. His lawyers have not commented on the recent court decision.
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