Trump Found Guilty in Falsifying Business Records Case
First Former President Convicted of Crime
Sentencing Hearing Set for July 11
NEW YORK (CNN) -- Former President Donald Trump was found guilty Friday of falsifying business records in a historic New York criminal case. The Trump Organization was also fined the maximum penalty of $1.6 million.
The verdict marks the first time a former president has been convicted of a crime. Trump's behavior during the trial, including his flouting of a gag order by making comments about witnesses and the jury, is likely to be a factor in his sentencing. The sentencing hearing is set for 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 11, exactly two weeks after his first presidential debate with Joe Biden.
The charges against Trump stemmed from a probe into the Trump Organization's practice of inflating the value of its assets to obtain favorable loan terms and tax breaks. Prosecutors presented evidence that Trump and his company had engaged in a decade-long scheme to mislead lenders and tax authorities.
Trump's defense team argued that the former president was not involved in the day-to-day operations of the Trump Organization and that the charges were politically motivated. However, the jury rejected those arguments and found Trump guilty on all 17 counts against him.
The verdict is a major blow to Trump, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. It is also a significant legal victory for the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, which has been investigating Trump and his businesses for years.
The verdict leaves a lasting impression on the public about the importance of holding even the most powerful people accountable for their actions. It also serves as a reminder that no one is above the law.
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