A New York jury has found Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, marking the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime. The jury’s decision came after 9½ hours of deliberations. The verdict, reached on Thursday, concluded a trial that began on April 15. Trump, who had pleaded not guilty, was convicted of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment made by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election.

Reaction from Trump and Legal Team

Following the verdict, Trump condemned the trial, labeling it as “rigged” and the judge as “corrupt.” His attorney, Todd Blanche, filed a motion for acquittal, which the judge denied.

Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention. He faces penalties ranging from fines to four years in prison for each count, though sentences are expected to run concurrently. Despite the conviction, legal experts suggest Trump may remain out of jail during the appeal process, allowing him to continue his presidential campaign.

District Attorney’s Statement

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized that the trial followed standard legal procedures. “While this defendant may be unlike any other in American history, we arrived at this trial and ultimately today at this verdict in the same manner as every other case,” Bragg stated.

Trump’s campaign quickly leveraged the verdict for fundraising, positioning him as a “political prisoner.” Meanwhile, President Joe Biden’s campaign highlighted the importance of the verdict but stressed that the ultimate decision rests with voters in the upcoming election.

The Jury’s Role and Closing Arguments

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass underscored the importance of the jury’s role in upholding the law. “The law is the law, and it applies to everyone equally,” he stated during closing arguments. Trump’s defense argued the payments were legitimate and not part of any criminal activity.

The historic verdict has significant implications for the upcoming presidential election, with Trump remaining a key figure in the political landscape despite his legal battles. The case underscores the principle that no one is above the law, reaffirming the judiciary’s role in upholding justice.