NEW YORK – On Friday, former President Donald Trump became the first ex-president in U.S. history to receive a criminal sentence. He was granted an “unconditional discharge,” which means he will not serve any prison time or probation while he prepares to assume the presidency again on January 20.

Before receiving his sentence, Trump expressed to the judge that the experience has been “very terrible” and labeled it a “setback” for the New York judicial system.

Trump was convicted on May 30 of 34 felony charges related to falsifying business records to conceal a payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. Although he didn’t attend the sentencing in person, he participated via video from South Florida.

After a half-hour hearing, Judge Juan Merchan released Trump without imposing any further conditions and wished him “Godspeed” as he heads into his second presidential term.

Stay updated with YSL News’s coverage from the courtroom in Manhattan:

Judge Merchan released the audio from Donald Trump’s sentencing

Judge Merchan provided the public with an extraordinary opportunity to hear the audio from President-elect Donald Trump’s sentencing hearing.

-Sarah D. Wire

New Yorkers carry on as history unfolds at the courthouse

Just before midday, Stella Zhang stepped outside from her home office for some sun, standing in the park near the Manhattan courthouse. Sunlight peeked through towering skyscrapers.

For a brief time, she lingered at the end of a small bridge over a dry, artificial pond where, earlier, barricades had separated groups of demonstrators for and against Trump. The protests had been lively and sometimes chaotic, but Zhang, who described herself as non-political, hadn’t paid much attention, particularly since protests are commonplace there. On that Friday, she noticed just a few Trump supporters packing up to leave.

“I haven’t really kept up with it,” she explained. “I just know he got elected.”– Eduardo Cuevas

What are the next steps after Trump’s sentencing?

Donald Trump was given an “unconditional discharge” during his sentencing related to the New York hush money case, allowing him to avoid any future restrictions following his conviction.

Before the sentencing, Trump had voiced his intent to appeal. About 20 minutes after the hearing concluded, he took to Truth Social to reiterate his plans, describing the court proceedings as a “despicable charade.”

Trump has a 30-day window to file a “notice of appeal” against his criminal conviction in New York state courts. The full appeals process might take months, if not years, to complete.

He could present various arguments during the appeal, such as questioning Judge Juan Merchan’s decisions on admissible evidence and witness testimonies, as well as the judge’s legal instructions to the jury.

Trump is expected to continue asserting claims about the immunity he believes he has as a former and future president. He has previously argued that his conviction should be invalidated based on testimony and evidence related to his previous term in office; however, Merchan dismissed that argument prior to sentencing.

– Aysha Bagchi

Trump’s Truth Social post criticizes the justice system once again

In a post on Truth Social to his millions of followers, President-elect Donald Trump reacted to becoming the first president sentenced for a criminal conviction, launching a series of familiar attacks on the justice system.

“The Radical Democrats have lost another pathetic, unAmerican Witch Hunt. After spending tens of millions of dollars, wasting over 6 years of obsessive work that should have been spent on protecting New Yorkers from violent, rampant crime that is destroying the City and State, coordinating with the Biden/Harris Department of Injustice in lawless Weaponization, and bringing completely baseless, illegal, and fake charges against your 45th and 47th President, ME, I was given an UNCONDITIONAL DISCHARGE,” Trump wrote in the post.

New York Justice Juan Merchan’s decision for an “unconditional discharge” means that the incoming president avoids jail time, fines, or probation but maintains He was found guilty on 34 charges of falsifying business records related to a payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the closing days of the 2016 presidential campaign.

-Sarah D. Wire

Supporter of Trump: Election improvements in New York indicate diversity and inclusion

Ariel Kohane, a 53-year-old Republican district leader from the Upper West Side, remarked that the varied supporters outside the Manhattan courthouse represented Trump’s diverse appeal—ranging from ‘Asians for Trump’ to ‘Black Lives MAGA.’ Kohane wore a red yarmulke featuring Trump’s name.

Despite Trump losing New York City significantly, he achieved record improvements, securing around 30% of the city’s votes in the 2024 elections, as reported by the New York Times. Most of this support came from primarily nonwhite areas.

“We are a party that values diversity and inclusion,” Kohane expressed. “That’s what the MAGA movement is all about. We welcome everyone.”

Standing beside a group of Asian and Black Trump supporters waving pro-Trump, American, and Israeli flags, Kohane, a strong Israel advocate, claimed many fellow Jews are transitioning toward the Republican Party. Even those still registered as Democrats, he argued, are being swayed by the ongoing war in Gaza and rising antisemitism in the U.S.

He termed this shift “Jexit,” paralleling it to “Blexit,” which refers to Black Americans leaving the Democratic Party.

– Eduardo Cuevas

Political historian: Trump’s sentencing an ‘absurd spectacle’

Matthew Dallek, a historian and political management professor at George Washington University, characterized Trump’s sentencing—despite the president-elect appearing remotely—as an “absurd spectacle” that highlights Trump’s influence, his re-election, and the prevailing skepticism towards the political system in the U.S.

“Reflecting on the past four years, from the FBI’s Mar-a-Lago raid to the four criminal cases, the various civil suits, and the January 6 Capitol riots, this felony conviction is part of a continuous stream of corruption and illegality. We shouldn’t overlook this, despite him winning both the popular and electoral vote,” Dallek stated.

“Today’s events shed light on various aspects of the entire Trump era. It’s both deeply tacky yet also signifies a felony conviction,” he remarked. “The fact that he could endure being found guilty on 34 felony counts and still win the presidency easily is indicative of the political landscape in America circa 2025.”

Dallek noted that Trump’s ability to leverage this first criminal case for his campaign and fundraising demonstrates an increasing public disillusionment and distrust in the political system, including the courts and the politicians that brought Trump to face charges.

– Josh Meyer

‘I wish you well’: Merchan sentences Trump without conditions

Judge Juan Merchan, in brief comments to President-elect Donald Trump, stated that the appropriate sentence for the business mogul—considering all factors—is an unconditional discharge, meaning Trump will not serve jail time, perform community service, or face supervision in New York.

Merchan had signaled prior to the sentencing that he would likely impose this lenient sentence, taking into account Trump’s incoming presidency. Both the prosecution and Trump’s legal team advocated for this outcome.

“Sir, I wish you well as you begin your second term,” Merchan said.

With that, the short sentencing session—lasting just about 30 minutes—came to an end.

– Aysha Bagchi

Trump criticizes New York case as cities face greater issues

Continuing his comments to Judge Merchan, President-elect Trump condemned the New York hush money case, which was the only one of his four criminal cases to go to trial before the upcoming November election.

Trump referenced significant national and international concerns, implying that the New York case is relatively insignificant.

“With our largest and most vital cities literally ‘burning to the ground’, I was indicted for referring to a legal expense as a legal expense,” Trump stated. The jury found Trump guilty of falsifying business records by misrepresenting repayment to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for hush money paid to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.

Trump also highlighted ongoing wars, inflation issues, and other “awful things occurring” as he faced the charges in New York for which he has now been convicted.

– Aysha Bagchi

Trump claims criminal case aided his election victory

President-elect Donald Trump conveyed to Judge Juan Merchan that the U.S. populace “witnessed firsthand” his unfair indictment, which he believes influenced their voting in his favor in November.

He asserted that he “won decisively” in all seven swing states and the popular vote in 2024, suggesting that public sentiment surrounding the case was beneficial to him at the polls.

The Trump trial spanned from April 15 to May 30 of the previous year, coinciding with the conclusion of the Republican primary elections and the start of the 2024 general election campaign.

– Aysha Bagchi

‘It’s amazing’: Trump speaks to the judge

Judge Juan Merchan asked President-elect Donald Trump if he wished to speak in court, and Trump responded affirmatively, expressing his gratitude to the judge.

Trump described the entire situation as a “horrible experience” and a “blow” to the New York court system.

He remarked, “It was highly inappropriate. It involved someone connected to my political rival,” implying that the case may have been influenced by political motives.

According to Trump, the business records in question were accurate, even though the jury concluded they had been falsified to disguise a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. He argued that his legal fees were simply categorized by accountants as legal expenses, which he claims led to his indictment.

“It’s amazing,” Trump stated.

– Aysha Bagchi

Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche calls for ‘unconditional discharge’

Defense attorney Todd Blanche made a brief statement to Judge Merchan, contesting the way prosecutor Joshua Steinglass described the criminal case, suggesting it should never have been pursued.

However, Blanche concurred with Steinglass that the judge should consider an “unconditional discharge,” allowing Trump to be released with no further conditions.

– Aysha Bagchi

‘We support Trump!’: President-elect’s backers outside the courthouse

A small, diverse group of supporters for Trump assembled outside the courthouse, waving pro-Trump and American flags.

They led chants of “We support Trump!” and “America First,” in front of numerous cameras, including those from the press and conservative media outlets.

“Donald Trump will prioritize this country and us,” one supporter shouted.

– Eduardo Cuevas

Prosecutor calls for ‘unconditional discharge’ for Trump

Despite criticizing Trump’s perceived lack of respect for the legal system, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass suggested that Judge Juan Merchan should grant an “unconditional discharge,” allowing Trump to avoid any ongoing conditions resulting from his sentence.

This recommendation aligns with the sentence that Merchan has indicated he is likely to impose following Trump’s election win and upcoming presidential responsibilities.

Nonetheless, Steinglass contended that Trump has caused “lasting harm to public trust in the criminal justice system” by attacking the case and its participants, alleging that Trump’s actions have endangered court officials.

– Aysha Bagchi

Large flag supporting Trump outside the courthouse

A massive 100-foot flag emblazoned with the phrase “Trump Won Trifecta” stretched across a park near the courthouse, where protesters have frequently gathered throughout the court proceedings, often engaging in fiery exchanges.

On Friday, Trump supporters congregated in the park, chanting against Judge Merchan at times. For the most part, they chatted amongst themselves as they worked to keep the flag steady against the cold morning wind. “Hold that corner tight,” supporters would occasionally call out. One demonstrator humorously asked, “How do you say ‘let go’ in Chinese?”

Michael Li, 76, from Queens, held a flag corner while facing the courthouse. Wearing a red “Make America Great Again” cap and carrying a National Rifle Association backpack, he shared that it took him two hours by bus and train to come support the president.

“Trump has never broken the law,” he insisted, labeling the proceedings as communist and fascist. “It’s disgraceful.”

– Eduardo Cuevas

Trump has shown ‘disregard’ for the legal system: Prosecutor

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass, who presented the prosecution’s closing arguments during the trial, is addressing Judge Juan Merchan. Steinglass is stressing that Trump was found guilty by a Manhattan jury after several weeks of testimony, arguing that the president-elect has shown disrespect for the legal system.

“The jury’s verdict was unanimous and clear,” Steinglass stated, emphasizing that it must be upheld.

“Instead of showing any remorse,” he continued, Trump has demonstrated “disregard” for the institutions and for the “rule of law.” Trump has labeled the proceedings as “corrupt,” a “witch hunt,” and a “sham,” Steinglass noted.

– Aysha Bagchi

‘Let’s get on with the sentencing, please’: Trump sentencing commences

After inquiring about a probation report, Judge Juan Merchan officially kicked off the significant sentencing process with the statement: “Let’s proceed with the sentencing, please.”

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is currently addressing the judge and outlining the background of the case, including the specifics of Trump’s conviction.

– Aysha Bagchi

Judge Juan Merchan Arrives to Speak with Trump’s Attorneys

Judge Juan Merchan has entered the courtroom and started speaking with the legal teams. While Trump’s defense lawyer Emil Bove is present in the courtroom, Trump and his other attorney, Todd Blanche, are participating via video from Florida, visible on several large screens. The prosecutors are physically present in the courtroom.

When asked about their remote appearance, Blanche confirmed they are joining the proceedings from Florida.

– Aysha Bagchi

Trump’s Virtual Appearance for Sentencing

Dressed in a suit and a red tie, President-elect Donald Trump appears on monitors situated at the prosecution and defense tables. Seated beside him is Todd Blanche, who not only represents Trump legally but is also nominated for a role as deputy attorney general in Trump’s future Justice Department.

American flags are displayed behind Trump.

– Aysha Bagchi

Protesters Gather in Chilly Weather Before Sentencing

A small number of both supporters and detractors of President-elect Donald Trump gathered outside the Manhattan criminal court on a cold Friday morning.

The groups remained mostly silent, holding signs near the courthouse while Trump’s sentencing is anticipated to take place. During the proceedings, various city streets were blocked, and on Friday, many walked among the lines of New York City police officers, journalists, and demonstrators as they made their way to work.

A group of over a dozen activists from Rise and Resist displayed signs that said “Felon,” “Presidents are not kings,” and “Indivisible Liberty Justice” in front of a line of journalists. Jamie Bauer, a 66-year-old organizer, stressed the significance of witnessing the sentencing of a president, despite Trump already facing felony convictions.

“This is who we’re going to have as president for four years,” Bauer stated while holding a sign that read “No jail time is an injustice to us all.” “Someone who has no respect for the law.”

On the courthouse steps, numerous Trump supporters waved flags. One sign proclaimed, “Stop partisan conspiracy” and “Stop political witch hunt.”

As Trump’s sentencing approached, supporters revealed a substantial 100-foot flag showing their support. Dion Cini, 56, who was wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat, originally planned to unveil it at the inauguration on January 20 but opted to show support today instead.

“I have a mission today,” Cini expressed. “Of course, next weekend will be the biggest celebration. Not just the biggest, but the best.”

Cini believes the criminal case will help propel Trump to a second term, stating, “They got us 5 more million votes.”

– Eduardo Cuevas

Alvin Bragg Enters the Courtroom

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has arrived in the courtroom and taken a seat in the second bench behind the prosecutors. A few moments earlier, several trial prosecutors also entered and settled into their seats at or near the prosecution’s table.

– Aysha Bagchi

Understanding ‘Unconditional Discharge’

Before sentencing, Judge Juan Merchan indicated he might issue an “unconditional discharge” for Trump, although he plans to consider arguments from both the prosecution and defense before making a final ruling.

An unconditional discharge means that Trump would not face imprisonment, fines, or probation supervision. New York law mandates judges to provide reasons for imposing this sentence in cases of felony crimes. Trump is facing 34 felony charges.

Judges can give unconditional-discharge sentences if they feel that imposing any conditions on the defendant’s release would serve no beneficial purpose, according to New York law.

Merchan noted that an unconditional discharge seems to be “the most viable solution” considering the unique challenges related to Trump’s sentencing, including his upcoming presidency.

– Aysha Bagchi

How is the courtroom set up for Trump’s sentencing?

This morning at the Manhattan courthouse, security measures were more relaxed compared to Trump’s trial, likely because he opted to appear virtually for his sentencing. Reporters only went through one security check, in contrast to the two required during the trial.

In the main courtroom, there are four large TV screens displaying the time and the message “Standby.” Once the proceedings start at 9:30 a.m. EDT, Trump may be visible via video on these screens.

Judge Juan Merchan has not yet arrived in the courtroom, and the sketch artists formerly positioned in the audience have taken seats in the jury box for today’s session.

Reporters are using laptops in the courtroom today, similar to the trial. A subtle noise of typing and whispered conversations fills the air as the proceedings are set to commence. Court security personnel are monitoring the room and will likely quiet conversations when the judge enters.

– Aysha Bagchi

When is Trump’s sentencing taking place?

Trump’s sentencing is slated to begin at 9:30 a.m. EDT on Friday. The president-elect chose to attend virtually after Judge Juan Merchan made that option available.

 – Aysha Bagchi

Who took the stand during Trump’s trial?

During Trump’s trial, nearly twenty witnesses provided testimony over a span of more than six weeks. The majority were called by the prosecution, comprising former staff members from the Trump White House and employees of the Trump Organization.

One of the key witnesses was Stormy Daniels, the adult film actress whose claim of a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006—which he denies—led to the hush money payment in 2016 around which the case revolves. Daniels provided detailed accounts of the alleged encounter, stating that Trump was wearing silky pajamas and remarked that she reminded him of his daughter.

Michael Cohen, Trump’s former attorney who has become a critical witness, also testified. Cohen said he paid Daniels $130,000 to keep her from discussing the incident before the 2016 election, and Trump was convicted for falsifying business records as a means of repaying Cohen in 2017.

Another significant prosecution witness was David Pecker, former head of the parent company of the National Enquirer. Pecker described a “catch-and-kill” operation where the tabloid would purchase and suppress potentially damaging stories about Trump during the 2016 campaign.

– Aysha Bagchi

What led the Supreme Court to approve Trump’s sentencing?

The U.S. Supreme Court voted 5-4 on Thursday evening to allow Trump’s sentencing to proceed. Trump had asked the justices to block it, claiming he had immunity as a former and future president.

The majority opinion suggested that the issues of immunity related to the evidence presented during the trial could be addressed in a future appeal, and the impact of the sentencing on Trump would be “relatively insubstantial.”

The justices noted that Judge Juan Merchan had made it clear he would not impose restrictions on Trump and that the hearing would be a “brief virtual session.”

Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, both appointed by Republicans, sided with the three Democratic-appointed justices—Sonia Sotomayor, Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Elena Kagan—to permit the sentencing. The four remaining Republican-appointed justices—Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh—voted against proceeding with the sentencing on Friday.

– Aysha Bagchi

What are Trump’s views on his sentencing?

In a statement.

During an evening press conference from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump announced that he will be present for his sentencing on Friday but emphasized that his battle against the legal charges in New York is far from over.

“I’ll handle my little situation tomorrow – they can enjoy their time with their political adversary,” Trump remarked.

Trump reiterated his intention to challenge his conviction, stating that he does not expect to receive any penalties on Friday.

“We’re going to appeal regardless – it’s a matter of principle – because, honestly, it’s a disgrace,” he explained.

– Aysha Bagchi

Is Jail a Possibility for Trump?

In theory, Judge Juan Merchan from Manhattan has the authority to sentence Trump to jail or prison. While there is no mandatory minimum sentence, each of Trump’s 34 felony convictions could result in a maximum sentence of four years. However, under New York law, the cumulative sentence for the Class E felonies he was convicted of is capped at 20 years.

Nevertheless, Merchan indicated earlier this month that he might issue an “unconditional discharge,” meaning Trump would not face any ongoing restrictions. Merchan referred to this option as “the most practical resolution” to finalize the case, allow Trump to appeal the ruling, and avoid any disruption to his upcoming presidency.

Even if Merchan considered imposing a jail term, he may not be able to do so quickly. The Supreme Court has yet to decide whether a president-elect or sitting president can be incarcerated, and some legal experts argue that doing so would infringe on constitutional rights related to the presidency.

– Aysha Bagchi

Will Trump Attend Sentencing in Person?

Trump is obligated to attend his sentencing. However, Judge Juan Merchan granted him the choice to attend either virtually or in-person. In a ruling on January 3, Merchan allowed the virtual attendance option to alleviate any undue pressure on Trump as he prepares for his presidential duties.

Trump’s team did not respond to YSL News’s inquiry regarding whether he would be attending virtually or in person. However, prosecutors from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office stated in a filing to the U.S. Supreme Court that Trump would appear “via video.”

– Aysha Bagchi

What Were Trump’s Convictions For?

Trump was found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records to mask payments made to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen. These payments of $130,000 were made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep her silent about an alleged affair with Trump, which he has denied ever took place.

Prosecutors successfully demonstrated to the jury that Trump disguised the reimbursements as payments for legal services from Cohen, leading to the unanimous conviction of the former reality TV star.

Trump faced felony charges instead of misdemeanors because the jury found that he was falsifying records to either conceal or facilitate another crime. Prosecutors suggested that at least three other alleged crimes were involved, including violations of campaign finance laws related to the payment made to Daniels.

– Aysha Bagchi