A US judge has sentenced President-elect Donald Trump to an “unconditional discharge,” concluding the first criminal trial of a former president.
The decision spares Trump from any penalties, such as jail time or fines, despite his conviction in the hush-money payment case.
Justice Juan Merchan called the trial a “truly extraordinary case,” highlighting its unprecedented circumstances in American legal and political history.
Speaking via video call, Trump declared himself “totally innocent” and criticized the case as politically motivated, accusing Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg of weaponizing the judicial system.
Justice Merchan acknowledged the “paradox” of the trial, noting that while the courtroom proceedings were routine, the case took on historic significance when Trump was re-elected president after his conviction.
The unconditional discharge was deemed the only viable sentence, ensuring the incoming president could assume office without being hindered by pending court proceedings.
