NEW YORK, NY – A New York jury has found former U.S. President Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, marking the first time in American history that a former president has been convicted of a crime. The verdict, which came after 9.5 hours of deliberation, was delivered in a Manhattan courtroom where Trump had been on trial since April 15.
Trump, who had pleaded not guilty to all charges, was accused of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment made by his former lawyer Michael Cohen to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the final weeks of the 2016 presidential election.
NBC News reported that Trump appeared solemn, looking down with narrowed eyes as the jury foreperson read the “guilty” verdict for each count. The historic conviction comes as Trump is the presumed Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election.
Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, expressed gratitude to the jurors for their dedication throughout the trial. “You gave this matter the attention it deserved, and I want to thank you for that,” he said according to NBC News.
Following the verdict, Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche made a motion for acquittal, which Judge Merchan denied. In his closing arguments earlier this week, Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass emphasized the principle of equality before the law, stating, “The law is the law and it applies to everyone equally. There is no special standard for this defendant. You, the jury, have the ability to hold the defendant accountable.”
Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July, where he will face the consequences of the convictions. This landmark case has significant implications, underscoring the accountability of even the highest offices in the United States.