New York judge Juan Merchan postponed this Friday (September 6, 2024) the sentence of former US President Donald Trump (Republican) in the case of payment of money for silence by actress Stormy Daniels.
The new date has been set for November 26, after the presidential elections. The decision aims to avoid the perception of political motivation in the case. Originally, September 18 was set aside for the sentencing.
Allegations surfaced that Trump had paid Daniels $130,000 through his then-attorney to silence her regarding an alleged extramarital affair during the 2016 campaign.
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The former president denies the meeting and is expected to appeal his sentence. On 34 counts, he was found guilty in May of fabricating business records. Merchan’s decision to delay sentencing was welcomed by Trump. “This case must be rightfully dismissed as we prepare for the most important election in the history of our country,” the Republican said on his Truth Social profile.
The delay also allows the judge to consider a pending motion by Trump’s lawyers to overturn the jury’s verdict. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the charges, did not oppose the request for a delay. If convicted, Trump could face a sentence of up to four years.
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