A New York judge has set 10 January as the sentencing date for President-elect Donald Trump in his hush-money case. The date comes less than two weeks before Trump is set to be sworn in as president for a second term.
Justice Juan Merchan announced that Trump would receive an “unconditional discharge” without jail time, probation, or fines.
The president-elect, who called the case a “rigged charade,” can attend the hearing virtually or in person.
Trump was convicted in May of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 (£105,000) payment to adult-film star Stormy Daniels.
The charges related to attempts to cover up reimbursements to his ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, who in the final days of the 2016 election campaign paid off the adult-film star to remain silent about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump.
The president-elect has denied all wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty, arguing the case was an attempt to harm his 2024 presidential campaign.
In his ruling, Justice Merchan acknowledged Trump’s concerns about the case impacting his presidency but rejected efforts to dismiss the conviction.
Trump is now set to be the first convicted felon to serve in the White House.
Chioma Kalu
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