Trump Convicted in Hush Money Case but Released, Becomes First US President Criminally Convicted

On the 10th, New York State Supreme Court Justice Merchan delivered a verdict on the "hush money" case, convicting President-elect Trump of a felony, but granted him unconditional release.

Trump became the first US president in history to be criminally convicted.

As expected, Merchan announced the unconditional release of Trump without any restrictive requirements.

Trump attended the sentencing hearing via video. The New York prosecutor supported the judge's decision for unconditional release during the hearing. When reading the verdict, Merchan stated that although a U.S. president enjoys "overriding" legal protection, the jury's verdict will not be overturned.

After Merchan concluded the sentencing, Trump did not make any comments and subsequently turned off his video camera.

This verdict emphasizes that Trump committed a felony while avoiding penalties such as imprisonment, meaning it will not impact his return to the White House. On the 20th of this month, he will officially assume office as the President of the United States with a felony conviction, a first in American history.

The "hush money" case refers to Trump's alleged misappropriation of campaign funds and falsification of business records to pay hush money to actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. Trump was found guilty of 34 counts by the jury in this case. Previously, Trump's defense attorneys filed applications with the New York State Court of Appeals, the New York State Supreme Court, and the US Supreme Court to halt the "hush money" case verdict, but all were denied.

CNN reported that Trump, after the New York judge's sentencing, stated that it was "a vile farce," and that he will appeal the verdict.

Outside the court, Trump's supporters gathered, waving American flags and banners with Trump's image, celebrating the verdict. Some supporters said the result was "good news" for Trump and believed that the outcome "will help the nation's future."