A New York judge has scheduled the sentencing of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for January 10, just days before his January 20 inauguration, following his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.
Judge Juan Merchan, who oversaw Trump’s trial earlier this year, indicated in a written ruling that he is inclined to impose a conditional discharge rather than a prison sentence.
This type of sentence would dismiss the case if Trump avoids further legal trouble.
The decision marks an unprecedented moment in U.S. history, setting Trump on course to become the first president to assume office while convicted of felony crimes.
Trump’s charges stem from a scheme to conceal a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign.
After his November election victory, Trump sought to have the conviction overturned, citing presidential immunity due to his imminent return to the White House.
However, Judge Merchan dismissed the argument, stating there was “no legal impediment” to proceeding with sentencing. He emphasised his obligation to finalise the case before the inauguration.
In his ruling, Merchan wrote:
“While this court as a matter of law must not make any determination on sentencing prior to giving the parties and defendants the opportunity to be heard, it seems proper at this juncture to make known the court’s inclination to not impose any sentence of incarceration, a sentence authorized by the conviction but one the people concede they no longer view as a practicable recommendation.”
Trump’s conviction and impending sentencing add a unique layer of complexity to his return to the presidency. Despite the legal battles and his status as a convicted felon, he remains poised to lead the nation once more.
