Trump found guilty on 34 Counts
In a historic ruling, former U.S. President Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records by a Manhattan jury on May 30, 2024. This verdict makes Trump the first former American president to be convicted of felony crimes. The trial centered on Trump’s alleged financial cover-ups, specifically related to hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign.
The jury deliberated for two days, spanning nine and a half hours, before delivering their unanimous decision. The charges stem from payments made by Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who testified that he was reimbursed by Trump for the $130,000 paid to Daniels. These reimbursements were falsely logged as legal expenses, a key point that led to Trump’s conviction.
Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the trial as politically motivated. In response to the verdict, he expressed his discontent, stating, “This is a very sad day for America,” and described the judicial process as “rigged” against him. His attorney, Todd Blanche, has indicated plans to appeal the conviction, which could potentially delay the sentencing scheduled for July 11, 2024.
Legal experts note that while Trump’s conviction is unprecedented, it does not bar him from running for president again. The U.S. Constitution sets minimal qualifications for presidential candidates, none of which disqualify a convicted felon from seeking office. This situation adds a complex layer to the upcoming 2024 presidential election, where Trump remains the presumptive Republican nominee.
The trial’s outcome is likely to have significant political repercussions, testing the electorate’s willingness to support a candidate with a criminal record. As Trump awaits sentencing, he remains free, with prosecutors not requesting any bond. The potential penalties for his crimes include up to four years in prison, although the exact sentence will be determined in the July hearing.
This case is one of several legal challenges facing Trump, who has been indicted in three other felony cases, but this marks the first conviction. The decision is a landmark in American legal and political history, highlighting the contentious and polarized nature of Trump’s influence and legacy.
