Procedures are rephrased. - Insulting witnesses: Trump faces a penalty
During a court case concerning hush money payments made to a porn actress by Donald Trump, the former President now owes a fine of $9,000 (approximately €8,400). The decision made by Judge Juan Merchan in New York City resulted from Trump's continued comments regarding the individuals involved in the trial, despite a gag order in place. The media reports on his actions in unison.
Court prosecutor Christopher Conroy relayed various violations of the gag order by Trump on his Truth Social platform or campaign website. These included slandering potential witnesses Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen. Conroy argued Trump knew what he could and could not do, yet persisted in doing so anyway, and pursued a fine. He clarified that no prison sentence was currently being sought, despite appearances to the contrary.
However, Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, defended his client's comments as possible reactions to political attacks. "It's allowed to respond to political attacks," Blanche stated, failing to provide concrete examples when asked by Judge Merchan. This lack of clarity led Merchan to question their credibility in court.
The indictment charges Trump with attempting to influence the 2016 US presidential election by giving $130,000 in hush money to sex actress Stormy Daniels. While the money transfer itself was not illegal, the ex-president falsified business documents to hide its true purpose when reimbursing it to his attorney, Michael Cohen.
This marks the first criminal case against a former US president. The potential punishment could be several years in jail - which might be suspended - or a fine. The case might also impact the upcoming US election campaign. Trump is determined to win the presidency again in November, and has entered a not-guilty plea.
Throughout the trial, Trump has been known for his confrontational behavior in legal matters. In the lead-up, he often labelled Judge Merchan and District Attorney Alvin Bragg - among others - as corrupt and biased. Mercenarily, Merchan therefore implemented a gag order on discussions about prosecutors, witnesses, and jurors, as well as their relatives.
Read also:
- Law enforcement agencies in various metropolises plan expansive measures for May 1.
- Berlin Transport Senator Schreiner Steps Down over Doctorate Issues
- Harsh scrutiny of discussions regarding coal phase-out.
- The SPD party expresses dismay as von der Leyen's remarks fuel right-wing support.
Source: www.stern.de
