Verdict Before Inauguration: Will Trump Face Punishment?

The verdict in the case involving Donald Trump, the newly elected President of the United States, accused of bribing adult film star Stormy Daniels, will be announced on January 10. However, a U.S. judge has indicated that Trump is unlikely to face imprisonment or any other punishment. This information was reported by Reuters on Saturday, January 4.

According to the report, Trump is being tried in New York’s Manhattan court for allegedly bribing Stormy Daniels to silence claims of an affair. Judge Juan Merchan stated that the verdict will be delivered on January 10 but hinted at granting Trump unconditional release. In his order, the judge mentioned that Trump could attend the hearing either in person or virtually.

No Legal Barrier to Inauguration

Reuters further reported that Judge Juan Merchan issued a ruling to ensure Trump faces no legal obstacles to taking the oath of office as President. He stated that the case has essentially been resolved and that there is no need to impose any punishment on Trump.

Trump is set to take the oath of office on January 20. The judge’s decision means that just 10 days before the inauguration, Trump will have to attend a court hearing, making it a rare and historic moment in U.S. history. No criminal defendant has ever become President before.

Release Without Conditions

The judge clarified that Trump will not face imprisonment or financial penalties. Instead, he will be granted an unconditional release, meaning no custody, fines, or probation will be required. The judge described this as the most effective solution.

Trump’s Response

In a statement, Trump’s spokesperson Steven Cheung said, “Trump should not face any imprisonment in this case. This baseless case should never have been considered. It is a constitutional demand to dismiss it immediately.”

This development has sparked intense discussions in the political circles of the U.S. and beyond.