Donald Trump sentenced with no penalty in New York criminal trial, as judge wishes him ‘Godspeed’ in 2nd term

President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced to an unconditional discharge on Friday after being found guilty of falsifying business records as a result of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s long investigation. Trump, who fought to block the sentencing process all the way to the United States Supreme Court, attended the hearing virtually alongside his defense attorney Todd Blanche.

In his virtual appearance, Trump expressed his disappointment with the American court system and called the case a “tremendous setback.” Despite his efforts to prevent the sentencing, Judge Juan Merchan proceeded with the hearing and delivered the verdict just ten days before Trump is set to be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.

Judge Merchan opted not to sentence Trump to prison and instead imposed an unconditional discharge, which means no punishment such as jail time, fines, or probation. This ruling also allows Trump to appeal the conviction, preserving his legal rights moving forward.

Merchan expressed his well wishes to Trump as he prepares to begin his second term in office, acknowledging the complexities of the case and the political implications surrounding it. Trump, who had filed appeals at various levels, including the U.S. Supreme Court, respected the court’s decision and vowed to continue fighting the conviction through the appeals process.

Despite facing legal challenges, Trump is set to be inaugurated as the President of the United States on January 20th. Throughout the case, Trump has maintained his innocence and attributed the charges to political motives aimed at undermining his election efforts.

As the legal battle continues, Trump remains focused on his upcoming presidency and the responsibilities that come with it. The outcome of his appeal efforts will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding his presidency and his legacy moving forward.