Judge Schedules Trump's Sentencing in Hush Money Case Prior to Inauguration

Judge Juan M. Merchan, known for contributions to President Joe Biden's campaign, has mandated that President-elect Donald Trump attend a sentencing session in the controversial hush money case next week, a mere 10 days ahead of his scheduled inauguration.

Merchan rejected Trump's request to overturn the conviction in this case, which has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, including some Democrats who argue the charges should never have been filed.

In his judicial opinion, Merchant stated, "Although the court cannot finalize sentencing decisions without hearing from both sides, it is appropriate at this stage to express the court's current inclination against imposing a prison sentence, an option permitted by the conviction but one that prosecutors have acknowledged as impractical under current circumstances."

He has set the sentencing hearing for January 10, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., allowing Trump to appear in person or remotely.

According to the Associated Press, Merchan has suggested that Trump would not face imprisonment, instead leaning towards a "conditional discharge." This means the case could be dismissed, provided Trump does not get arrested again, per the AP's coverage.