Donald Trump has received a no-penalty sentence in the Stormy Daniels hush money case, asserting his “total innocence” while labeling the situation a “political witch hunt.” The verdict comes as Trump prepares for his second presidential term on January 20.
The verdict, issued by Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan, resulted in an unconditional discharge, meaning Trump will not face jail time, probation, or fines. Judge Merchan had the authority to impose a sentence of up to four years.
Trump attended the hearing via video link and expressed that the case was a “very terrible experience” for him. He criticized the handling of the case, alleging it was pursued by political opponents, particularly referencing Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. “This has been a political witch hunt,” he asserted. “I am totally innocent. I did nothing wrong.” He ended his statement by thanking the judge, emphasizing how unfairly he felt treated.
The judge acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding the case, stating that he needed to determine a “just conclusion with a verdict of guilty.” He described the trial as “extraordinary” yet noted it lacked uniqueness when scrutinized behind closed doors.
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass contended that Trump sought to undermine the rule of law throughout the trial, highlighting Trump’s “relentless attacks” on the court and its officials. “His dangerous rhetoric has been a direct assault on the rule of law,” Steinglass stated, accusing Trump of trying to intimidate the prosecution.
Trump’s efforts to delay sentencing were recently rejected by the US Supreme Court. His legal team claimed that evidence presented in the trial went against a Supreme Court ruling from the previous summer that granted him broad immunity for actions taken during his presidency. His conviction in May 2024 marked him as the first individual convicted of a felony to assume the US presidency.
The jury found him guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 elections. Prosecutors allege Trump paid Daniels $130,000 to prevent her from disclosing details of an alleged affair in 2006—claims Trump has consistently denied.
While the case captured significant media attention, it did not deter American voters from choosing Trump again in the upcoming election.
What is an Unconditional Discharge?
In New York state law, an unconditional discharge is a sentence that does not entail imprisonment, fines, or probation. It is imposed when a judge believes that no beneficial purpose would come from conditional release requirements. Accordingly, Trump’s hush money case has concluded without any penalties that could impede his return to the White House.
Unconditional discharges have previously been granted in cases involving falsified business records and minor offenses like speeding and trespassing.
Credit: Sky News
