Donald Trump Sentenced Without Penalty in New York Case as Judge Wishes Him ‘Godspeed’ for Second Term
President-elect Donald Trump received an unconditional discharge on Friday after being convicted of falsifying business records, a case stemming from a lengthy investigation by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. The sentencing, held virtually, concluded with Judge Juan Merchan imposing no penalties while extending well wishes for Trump’s upcoming second term as president.
No Penalty Imposed in High-Profile Case
Judge Merchan’s decision to issue an unconditional discharge means Trump faces no jail time, fines, or probation. The ruling also preserves Trump’s ability to appeal the conviction.
“After careful analysis, this court determined that the only lawful sentence that permits entry of judgment of conviction is an unconditional discharge,” Judge Merchan stated. “At this time, I impose that sentence to cover all 34 counts.”
Addressing Trump directly, Merchan concluded, “Sir, I wish you Godspeed as you assume your second term in office.”
Trump Denounces Case as a ‘Setback for the American Court System’
During the sentencing, Trump criticized the trial as a politically motivated attack, calling it a “tremendous setback for the American court system” and an “embarrassment to the state of New York.”
“This has never happened in our country before,” Trump said, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the case against a former president and now president-elect. He also alleged significant involvement by the Justice Department and reiterated his claim of unfair treatment.
Legal Challenges Rejected Ahead of Sentencing
Trump had sought to delay sentencing through appeals to both the New York State Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court. However, both courts rejected his requests, allowing the case to proceed.
The Supreme Court, in its decision, noted that Trump’s concerns about evidentiary issues could be addressed during the appeal process. The Court also stated that the sentence, being an unconditional discharge, would impose minimal burden on Trump’s presidential responsibilities.
While four conservative justices expressed support for granting Trump’s request, the five-vote majority—comprising Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson—ultimately denied the motion.
A Unique Legal and Political Moment
Judge Merchan acknowledged the extraordinary nature of the case, citing the heightened media attention and security measures involved. However, he emphasized that the trial itself was conducted no differently than other cases once the courtroom doors were closed.
“This was an extraordinary case, but the trial itself was not any more unique or extraordinary than others,” Merchan remarked.
The sentencing took place just 10 days before Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, marking another historic chapter in his political career.
Source : Swifteradio.com
