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BIG BREAKING, Trump Avoids Jail or Fine in Hush Money Case, Given ‘Unconditional Discharge’

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US President-elect Donald Trump has been spared jail time or a fine in the hush money case, just days before he is set to take office.

On Friday, a New York judge ruled that Trump would be granted an "unconditional discharge," meaning no imprisonment, fines, or probation will be imposed, though a guilty judgment will remain on his record.

The ruling, made by Justice Juan Merchan, came 10 days before Trump’s swearing-in ceremony on January 20. This decision closes a case that had loomed over Trump’s bid for re-election and marks the culmination of the first-ever criminal trial involving a US president.

Trump faced criminal charges stemming from a $130,000 hush money payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016, just before the presidential election. The payment was made in exchange for Daniels' silence about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump.

The payment was documented as a "legal expense," but prosecutors argued that it violated campaign finance laws by serving as an unlawful contribution. Trump, who appeared virtually for the sentencing with his lawyer, has consistently maintained his innocence.

He denounced the case as a “political witch hunt,” claiming it was designed to harm his reputation and prevent his successful run for president. He also vowed to appeal the guilty verdict, which he maintains was politically motivated. The ruling on Friday allows Trump to proceed with his plans to take office without facing any immediate legal penalties.

However, the guilty verdict will be permanently recorded, making Trump the first sitting or former president to face a criminal conviction.

The case revolved around Trump’s alleged role in falsifying business records to cover up the hush money payment. Although the charge carries a possible sentence of up to four years in prison, the judge determined that an "unconditional discharge" was the appropriate sentence.

Merchan explained that this was the only lawful sentence that would not interfere with the presidency and its constitutional protections. Trump's legal team had argued that he should be immune from prosecution between his election win and inauguration, but the court dismissed this claim.

The case also highlights the growing scrutiny of Trump’s legal battles, which could continue throughout his second term in office. The judge’s statement noted that Trump’s imminent assumption of the presidency factored into the decision:

"It is through that lens and that reality that this court must determine a lawful sentence," said Merchan. Though Trump has been granted relief from immediate punishment, the case has brought intense focus on his legal challenges as he prepares to resume office. His appeal process is expected to take years, potentially continuing to draw attention while he serves his second term.

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