Trump sentenced to unconditional discharge

January 10, 2025 – U.S President-elect, Donald Trump has been sentenced to unconditional discharge by Judge Juan Merchan following a court hearing today. Trump remained silent during the proceedings, and Judge Merchan swiftly concluded the session after delivering his decision.

In a powerful statement, Merchan underscored the distinction between the office of the president and the person occupying it. He explained that it is the unique legal protections tied to the presidential role that make it extraordinary, not the individual holding that office.

“This trial is no different from any other trial,” Merchan said, adding that no case has presented such a unique and exceptional set of circumstances. "This has been truly extraordinary," he added.

The judge also made it clear that presidential powers could not erase the jury’s verdict. "The powers of the presidency cannot undo a jury’s decision," he stated.

Merchan emphasized that the legal protections provided to the office of the president do not justify criminal actions. “These protections do not lessen the seriousness of any crime nor justify its commission in any way,” the judge remarked, highlighting that ordinary citizens do not receive the same legal privileges.

The ruling has once again placed Trump at the center of legal and political debate. While his silence in court stood in contrast to the gravity of the case, the decision has sparked discussions on the balance of power in the US legal system.