Donald Trump Sentenced Without Penalty Following Felony Conviction

The incoming president, convicted on 34 felony counts of business fraud, receives an 'unconditional discharge' days before taking office.

Donald Trump was convicted in May 2024 on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records to conceal a hush-money payment during the 2016 election.
New York Justice Juan Merchan sentenced Trump to an 'unconditional discharge,' citing the need to respect the office of the presidency, sparing him jail time, fines, or probation.
Trump's legal team unsuccessfully attempted to delay sentencing through multiple courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, which denied his request days before the hearing.
The case marks the only one of four criminal prosecutions against Trump to reach trial, with other cases stalled or dismissed following his 2024 presidential election victory.
Critics argue the lack of penalties undermines accountability, while Trump plans to appeal the conviction as he prepares to assume office as a convicted felon.