A New York court has upheld the conviction of former US President Donald Trump in a criminal case involving falsified financial records tied to hush money payments during his 2016 presidential campaign.
The ruling, issued on 16 December, dismissed appeals by Trump’s legal team seeking to overturn the decision of a jury that found him guilty earlier this year.
The case centres on a payment of $130,000 to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence over an alleged extramarital affair. Prosecutors argued that the payment was concealed through falsified business records to avoid negative publicity during Trump’s 2016 election campaign.
Legal Arguments Rejected
Judge Juan Merchan ruled against Trump’s lawyers, who cited a Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity. Trump’s defence team argued that immunity should extend to this case, suggesting the actions fell under the scope of official presidential duties. However, the court reaffirmed that the offences occurred before Trump assumed office and therefore did not qualify for such protections.
Prosecutors maintained that the immunity defence was inapplicable, as the crimes took place during Trump’s campaign and prior to his presidency.
Trump, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, is expected to appeal the ruling. He characterised the legal proceedings as a “politically motivated witch hunt” designed to undermine his standing.
Background
The jury’s verdict, delivered in May 2024, found Trump guilty of falsifying financial records to cover up the hush money payment to Stormy Daniels. The payment was reportedly made to prevent public disclosure of their alleged relationship, which Trump has consistently denied.
The case marked the first time a former US president has been found guilty of a criminal offence. Sentencing, originally expected on 26 November 2024, has been delayed amid legal appeals.
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