Trump to Be Sentenced Over Hush Money Case, Judge Signals No Jail Time

A judge in New York has scheduled Donald Trump’s sentencing for January 10, 2025, in connection with the hush-money case involving adult-film star Stormy Daniels. The decision comes less than two weeks before Trump is set to be sworn in as president.

Justice Juan Merchan indicated that Trump would not face jail time, probation, or a fine. Instead, Merchan suggested he would grant an "unconditional discharge," allowing the president-elect the option to attend the sentencing hearing either in person or virtually.

Trump had previously sought to have the case dismissed, arguing that his election victory should invalidate the charges. In a post on Truth Social, he dismissed the judge's ruling as a politically motivated attack, calling the case a "rigged charade."

In May, Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in relation to a $130,000 payment made to Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. The payment was meant to keep Daniels quiet about an alleged affair with Trump, with reimbursements to his former lawyer Michael Cohen.

The president-elect continues to deny any wrongdoing, asserting that the case is an attempt to undermine his 2024 campaign. He referred to the sentencing order as unconstitutional, stating that it could endanger the future of the presidency. Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, labeled the legal proceedings as part of a "witch hunt," urging that Trump should be allowed to focus on his presidential duties without distraction.

In his motion against the case, Trump had argued that the legal proceedings could hinder his ability to govern if he were convicted while in office. However, Justice Merchan noted that options existed to address Trump's concerns without overturning the jury’s verdict. These options included delaying sentencing until Trump leaves office in 2029 or ensuring that any sentence would not involve prison time.

Trump had previously attempted, without success, to argue that the case violated a Supreme Court ruling granting presidents immunity from criminal prosecution for official actions. Despite this, Justice Merchan upheld the conviction in November 2024.

If sentenced, Trump would make history as the first convicted felon to hold the office of president. While falsifying business records carries a maximum sentence of four years, there is no minimum sentence, and prison time is not mandatory. Legal experts have indicated that it is unlikely Trump will face jail time due to his age and legal standing.

In addition to the hush money case, Trump faces charges in three other criminal cases, including one involving classified documents and two related to his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.