Trump Seeks Delay in Sentencing Due to Inauguration Conflicts

Donald Trump, the president-elect, is pushing for a delay in the sentencing related to his felony hush money case as he gears up for his inauguration. Filed in New York, his legal team announced plans on Monday to appeal the sentencing order issued by Justice Juan Merchan, who earlier declared that Trump must appear before the court. Trump, a historic figure as the first former president to be convicted of a crime, maintains his innocence regarding the 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. His attorneys argue that the prosecution is politically motivated, while the Manhattan district attorney's office encourages the court to proceed with sentencing without delay. Justice Merchan has emphasized the importance of resolving the matter for finality in the ongoing legal disputes surrounding Trump.

In a significant legal development, Donald Trump, poised to be inaugurated as president again, has requested that a New York court postpone his sentencing date, currently set for January 10, for his felony hush money case. His lawyers argue that ongoing legal proceedings are driven by political motives, and they plan to appeal the court's previous decisions to ensure an equitable resolution. Trump, found guilty in May 2024, of falsifying business records, is still contesting the felony counts against him, stemming from payments made to an adult film star. While Justice Merchan stated that the sentencing should proceed, he acknowledged Trump's right to appeal. The situation remains tense as Trump's legal team navigates his transition into office amidst a backdrop of courtroom drama.