TL/DR –
The judge presiding over Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial has postponed his sentencing to allow his defense team more time to argue for a new trial following the Supreme Court’s recent decision on immunity. Trump’s lawyer claims that the trial wrongfully used evidence of his “official acts” as president, which they argue is now protected by immunity. The Manhattan jury had found Trump guilty of felonies, normally misdemeanors, related to falsifying business records to cover up payments to Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 election.
Delay Approved in Donald Trump’s New York Criminal Trial
The judge in Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial approved a postponement of the former president’s sentencing on Tuesday. This comes in response to Trump’s lawyers requesting additional time to argue the implications of the Supreme Court’s immunity decision on Trump’s case.
Rescheduled Sentencing Date
The sentencing hearing, initially slated for July 11, is now postponed to September 18 at the earliest, as indicated by a letter on the court’s docket. This ensures that Trump’s sentencing won’t occur until post his formal nomination at the Republican National Convention starting on July 15.
Supreme Court’s Immunity Decision
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, Trump’s team moved swiftly, sending a letter to Merchan to discuss its impact on his felony conviction involving falsified business records. Prosecutors expressed no opposition to the sentencing delay, although they believe the attempt to overturn the verdict lacks merit.
Trump’s Felony Conviction
The Manhattan jury convicted Trump for crimes that escalated to felonies in this case. The prosecution argued that he modified his business records during his presidency to conceal hush money paid to adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election.
Immunity and Official Acts
Trump’s lawyers claim prosecutors improperly used evidence of Trump’s “official acts” at trial, now considered immunized conduct under the Supreme Court’s recent decision. The justices concluded that while presidents hold no immunity for unofficial acts, prosecutors can’t use any evidence involving official acts to prosecute unofficial conduct.
Judge’s Decision on Sentencing Delay
Judge Merchan approved the delay in sentencing, communicating this to both Trump’s lawyers and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s team in a letter. Despite this, Trump’s team may encounter resistance as the judge dismissed their earlier attempt to have the case dismissed on immunity grounds. He will issue an immunity-related ruling on Sept. 6.
Potential Outcome and Sentencing
Trump might face several potential sentences, including prison time, probation, or a fine. DA Bragg, who brought the case against Trump, hasn’t yet indicated the sentence he will seek.
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