2:00 p.m. ET, April 22, 2024
These are the charges against Trump in the hush money case
Former US President Donald Trump attends the first day of his trial at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York City on April 15.
Angela Weiss/Pool/Getty Images
Donald Trump has faced three civil trials in New York since he left the White House, but this is the first time he faces possible jail time.
Each count represents a separate instance of the alleged misconduct, pointing to different business records associated with a series of repayments to Cohen (ledger entries, checks, stubs, invoices, etc.) that were allegedly falsified to conceal his criminal conduct.
Penalty: The maximum penalty for each count is four years in state prison. However, the judge has discretion on how long any sentence should be and whether to allow any sentences to be served consecutively. He could also sentence Trump to probation.
New York caps sentencing for this type of felony at 20 years. A president has no authority to pardon state crimes.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
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