Former President Donald Trump was formally sentenced Friday in his high-profile hush money case, with Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan declining to impose any punishment despite Trump’s conviction on all 34 felony charges. The ruling allows Trump an unconditional release, allowing him to resume his political career without the threat of imprisonment or fines.
The sentencing ends a bizarre legal battle that lasted nearly two months, during which sordid details of Trump's alleged efforts to conceal charges were publicly released Despite legal challenges, case had no negative impact on the political fortunes of Trump, who was elected to a second term.
While the conviction could have resulted in a four-year prison sentence for the 78-year-old Republican, Judge Merchan’s decision to end the case upon his release is unconditional to avoid potential conflicts of law. Publicly, it makes Trump the first felon to be convicted since taking office, underscoring the unprecedented nature of the case.
The decision has sparked fierce debate, with critics saying it undermines accountability, while supporters celebrate it as a sign of Trump's ability to lead despite legal hurdles. As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the implications of his conviction and trial are likely to remain politically and legally controversial.
Trump, convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records, maintained his innocence during a virtual appearance from Mar-a-Lago, calling the case a "political witch hunt" and pledging to appeal. Judge Merchan cited constitutional complexities and the unique protections Trump will have as president as key factors in the no-penalty ruling.
The case, involving a USD 130,000 payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels to silence allegations of an affair, marks the only one of four criminal indictments against Trump to reach trial. Prosecutors criticised Trump for undermining the judiciary but supported the no-penalty sentence.
Trump’s lawyers hailed the ruling, emphasising voters’ endorsement of his leadership despite the legal battles. The former president is set to assume office in 10 days, becoming the first convicted felon to hold the presidency. Meanwhile, his other legal challenges remain unresolved.
