Trump becomes the first former American president to be convicted of felony crimes
The New York court decision could shake up the 2024 election campaign.
Donald Trump became the first former American president to be convicted of felony crimes.
The New York jury found him guilty of all 34 charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to an adult actor who said the two had sexual intercourse.
A New York City jury delivered the verdict on Thursday afternoon after a seven-week-long trial.
At the end of Thursday’s proceedings, a sentencing date was set for July 11, at the request of defence lawyer Todd Blanche.
As reported, the hearing will fall four days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Wisconsin, where Trump is expected to be officially recognised as the party’s presidential nominee.
Trump briefly speaking to reporters outside the court said, “This was a rigged, disgraceful trial. The real verdict is going to be on November 5, by the people. And they know what happened here.”
He also hinted at a much-anticipated appeal, reiterating that he is “a very innocent man”.
“We will fight for our constitution. This is long from over. Thank you very much,” he said as he quickly walked away.
