United States president-elect, Donald Trump, has been sentenced to an unconditional discharge after being convicted of 34 felony counts related to hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
The conviction stems from Trump’s efforts to suppress Daniels’ allegations of an affair, which surfaced during the 2016 presidential race.
Despite facing potential jail time, Judge Juan Merchan opted for the least severe punishment, which allows Trump to avoid prison and fines, Channels TV reports.
“Never before has this court been presented with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances,” said Merchan.
“The only lawful sentence that permits entry of a judgment of conviction without encroaching on the highest office of the land is an unconditional discharge.”
The court ruling came after a long legal battle that saw Trump accused of falsifying business records to cover up the payments.
Prosecutors argued that his actions were part of a deliberate and ongoing deception aimed at protecting his campaign from scandal.
In response, Trump vehemently denied the charges, calling the case a “witch hunt” designed to damage his reputation and election chances.
While Trump’s legal team attempted to delay the sentencing by appealing the conviction, the Supreme Court ruled that the hearing should proceed.
This ruling marks a significant moment in U.S. history, as Trump becomes the first former president to be convicted of a felony.
Outside the courthouse, a mix of Trump supporters and opponents gathered, with some waving banners and others holding signs calling for his conviction.
Trump’s legal team had hoped for a delay, but New York State Associate Justice Ellen Gesmer rejected the request earlier in the week, allowing the discharge to be finalized.
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