Article Summary –
Deliberations have started in the first criminal trial involving former president Donald Trump, who is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records relating to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels in 2016. The Manhattan District Attorney alleges these records were falsified with the intent to conceal another crime, effectively elevating the charge to a felony. If convicted, Trump faces up to four years in prison; however, the public has little visibility into the jury’s deliberations, which could take several days or stretch into next week.
Jury Starts Deliberation in Trump’s First Criminal Trial
Jury deliberations started Wednesday in the first criminal trial against Donald Trump, led by New York prosecutors. State Judge Juan Merchan spent over an hour instructing the 12-person jury on the legal considerations for this historic case. A verdict could emerge as soon as Wednesday afternoon, although the process could extend into next week.
Prosecutor’s Closing Statement
Joshua Steinglass, the prosecutor, ended his 4½-hour closing argument by telling the jury that they have the capacity to hold the defendant accountable. Americans nationwide are anxiously awaiting the verdict, despite having minimal insight into the jury’s discussions, which occur behind closed doors.
Judge’s Instructions to Jurors
Judge Merchan advised the jury to disregard personal sentiments or opinions when deliberating. He reminded them of the prosecution’s obligation to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, and emphasized the necessity of a unanimous decision for a guilty verdict. The jury was also instructed not to infer anything from Trump’s absence from the witness stand.
Trump’s Charges
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has charged Trump with 34 counts of falsifying business records related to payments made by his attorney Michael Cohen to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election’s closing days. Prosecutors claim that these payments were misleadingly categorized as legal expenditures by Trump.
Defense’s Argument
Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche insisted that Trump did not commit any crimes, and criticized the prosecution’s reliance on Cohen’s testimony due to his history of dishonesty. Blanche suggested that Trump was paying for general legal services rather than reimbursing Cohen for the Daniels payment.
Conclusion of the Trial
The trial began on April 15 and Trump, who previously said he would testify, did not take the stand. If convicted, Trump could face up to four years in prison. Meanwhile, Trump continues to rally his supporters on his Truth Social platform, claiming to be a victim of a witch hunt and kangaroo court.
Trump’s supporters have been rallying daily outside the courthouse, and their numbers are expected to increase as the verdict approaches.
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