The judge in President-elect Donald Trump’s New York criminal hush money case indicated Friday that he intends to sentence Trump to an “unconditional discharge” out of respect for the presidential immunity doctrine.
Judge Juan Merchan called it the “most viable solution” to ensure finality and allow Defendant to pursue his appellate options.”
Judge Juan Merchan ordered Trump to appear, either in person or virtually, for his sentencing on Jan. 10.
Trump was found guilty this past May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in order to boost his electoral prospects in the 2016 presidential election.
Republican presidential nominee, former President Donald Trump looks on during a roundtable with faith leaders at Christ Chapel on Oct. 23, 2024 in Zebulon, Ga.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, FILE
Trump faced the possibility of up to four years in prison for his conviction, though most legal experts believed he was more likely to receive a lighter sentence.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.