Breaking: Trump Facing Imprisonment Verdict Before Inauguration
Jakarta. Donald Trump is back in the spotlight as a New York judge prepares to announce the verdict in his ‘hush money’ case. The bombshell ruling is set only days before Trump’s presidential inauguration on January 20.
Trump was indicted in May 2023 on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal payments made to Stormy Daniels, a adult film star, to silence her claims of an affair a decade ago. If convicted, the former president could face up to four years in prison.
Despite attempts by Trump’s legal team to dismiss the case, citing a crucial Supreme Court decision last year that shields former presidents from certain legal actions while in office, the trial is moving forward. Trump has already publicly reacted to the impending verdict, expressing frustration and outrage.
Judge Rejects Trump’s Arguments, Advises No Prison Time
In a significant turn, Judge Juan Merchan has rejected various motions submitted by Trump’s legal team in a bid to dismiss the case. In a 18-page ruling, Merchan sided with the jury’s previous decision and strongly indicated that a sentence of imprisonment is unlikely.
The judge stated, "It appears appropriate at this time to inform the defendant of the court’s inclination not to impose a custodial sentence." Merchan’s ruling also affirms that Trump’s presidential immunity from legal action may resume upon taking his oath of office.
Trump, who is set to reclaim the presidency in 2025, could reportedly face other legal challenges, including investigations into his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his handling of classified documents.
Trump Slams ‘Political Witch Hunt’
Reacting to the judge’s announcement, Trump lambasted the proceedings as a "political witch hunt." In a statement posted on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump described the case as a "manufactured spectacle" and labeled Judge Merchan as a "radical partisan."
He declared, "This transparent attempt to interfere with the democratic process and my upcoming inauguration is a sorry attempt to silence me and my message." Trump’s supporters and critics alike eagerly await the final verdict that will shape his presidency’s early days.
