Trump Sentenced to Unconditional Discharge, Remains a Convicted Felon
A New York judge has sentenced former President Donald Trump to an "unconditional discharge," effectively making him a convicted felon in the eyes of New York state law, but with no further penalties. The sentence was handed down just 10 days before Trump is set to be sworn in as the 47th president.
Trump, who appeared remotely from his Florida home, expressed his disapproval of the verdict, stating, "It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election. I am totally innocent. I did nothing wrong."
Judge Juan Merchan cited Trump’s immunity and legal protections as the reason for the sentence, calling it "the only lawful sentence that permits entry of a judgment of conviction without encroaching upon the highest office in the land."
Trump’s attorneys had previously sought to stay the proceeding, but their appeals were unsuccessful. Trump’s final hope, the US Supreme Court, declined to block the proceeding in a 5-4 ruling on Thursday.
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass recommended a sentence of unconditional release, citing the unique circumstances of the case, including Trump’s upcoming inauguration and the prospect of a prison sentence. Steinglass also expressed frustration with Trump’s behavior throughout the case, including his attacks on the judge, prosecutors, and their family members.
Trump’s legal team, on the other hand, claimed that the Manhattan district attorney’s office overstepped in bringing the charges and that the case was politically motivated. Trump planned to fully appeal the case after the sentence was handed down.