US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday urged a court to halt his conviction in the alleged hash money case while he is appealing against it. The case was scheduled for Friday for sentencing, which could lead to his conviction ahead of his presidency.
Trump's lawyers asked an appeals court in New York to overturn the decision of Manhattan Judge Juan M. Murchan, who upheld may's landmark ruling and set the sentence. The lawyers also said they would appeal against an earlier decision that refused to dismiss the case on the grounds of "presidential immunity".
Judge Mirchan ruled last week that he did not intend to punish President Trump on 34 criminal charges. The allegations relate to manipulation of business records.
Trump's lawyers requested Monday that the sentencing process be suspended until his appeal is implemented. He said that if the appeal court does not pass an order, then Judge Mirchan himself should stop the proceedings.
Today, President Trump's legal team took steps to stop the illegal conviction under a 'political conspiracy' by the Manhattan District Attorney," trump spokesman Steven Chong said.
Background of the case:
The case relates to alleged payment and accounting for the silencing of stormy Daniels, a porn actress, during the 2016 election campaign. Trump is accused of concealing the way he returned the payment to his personal lawyer, Michael Cohen.
Prosecutors say it is based on 34 charges of forgery of records, which could potentially lead to up to four years in prison.
The issue of punishment and its political implications:
Trump's legal team argued that near the start of his presidency, the imposition of the sentence would be against the principle of "presidential immunity." If the sentence is not awarded before the commencement of his office on January 20, it will have to be postponed until after he demits office in 2029, according to Judge Mirchan.
Prosecution and defence's position:
Lawyer Michael Cohen, a key prosecution witness, said the judge's decision to leave Trump unpunished was reasonable and reasonable.
Trump's lawyers also told the court that any sentencing proceedings should be stopped immediately in view of the constitution and judicial traditions.
For both Trump's supporters and critics, the case could have a significant impact on U.S. politics.
Post a Comment