Trump convicted in New York

NEW YORK, New York – A jury returned guilty verdicts on 34 felony counts in the hush-money case against former President Donald J. Trump Thursday making him the first former U.S. President to be convicted of a felony after serving in the Oval Office.

Judge Juan M. Merchan has set a sentencing hearing for July 11, a few days before Trump is expected to be named the formal Republican candidate for the White House. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg declined to say what possible sentence the prosecution would ask for and it is unknown whether jail time may be involved. Fines and probation may be options as Marchan takes on the unique task of sentencing a former head of state who is currently running for political office. 

The charge of falsifying business records is a Class E felony in New York, and is the lowest tier of felony possible under New York state law, which the case falls under. 

Trump maintained his innocence in the case when speaking with reporters after court proceedings closed down. He has multiple avenues for appeal if he chooses to.