Donald Trump Found Guilty on All 34 Counts in Criminal Hush Money Trial
Donald Trump has addressed the media following his court appearance, vehemently denouncing the verdict as rigged and maintaining his innocence.
He used the opportunity to deliver a mini stump speech, decrying the trial as a symptom of a country in decline.
Trump listed various issues he believes are plaguing the U.S. and blamed the Biden administration for the charges, despite no evidence supporting this claim.
Trump appeared visibly defeated. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing in July. This verdict marks a significant moment in U.S. history, with Trump being found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels. The jury deliberated for nearly 12 hours before reaching a unanimous decision.
The charges stem from a $130,000 payment made by Trump’s then-attorney Michael Cohen to Daniels during the 2016 election to silence her about an alleged affair.
Trump pleaded not guilty and remained defiant throughout the trial. The prosecution had to prove that Trump falsified business records to avoid declaring the payment as a campaign expense, arguing that the concealment was aimed at securing his election victory.
Trump’s defense attorney, Todd Blanche, insisted on Trump’s innocence, arguing that the prosecution failed to meet its burden of proof. Trump faces a maximum of four years in prison, though similar cases often result in probation.
The trial has been highly publicized, with Trump being held in contempt 10 times and fined $10,000 for violating the judge’s gag order.
Daniels and Cohen both testified, providing critical evidence, while Trump chose not to take the stand. Daniels’ testimony included intimate details about her alleged affair with Trump, claiming he told her that he and his wife Melania no longer shared a bedroom.
This case is historic as it marks the first time a U.S. president has been tried and convicted on criminal charges. Sentencing is set for a later date.
Donald Trump Found Guilty on All 34 Counts in Criminal Hush Money Trial
