former president donald trump New York grand jury indicted by his lawyers told the news media on Thursday over his role in hush money made to adult film stars during the 2016 election.
In a statement, Trump said the indictment was “political persecution” and “the highest level of election interference in history.”
“Democrats lied, cheated, and stole in their ‘get Trump’ obsession, but they did the unthinkable now. We have prosecuted an innocent person,” the statement said.
The indictment, led by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but it marks the first time in U.S. history that a former or current president has been criminally prosecuted. , also happens when Trump, who often seems to evade real consequences for his many scandals and wrongdoings, makes another run for the White House.
Trump now has to be formally arrested and arraigned like any other defendant. But unlike others in court, Trump will be accompanied by a Secret Service agent.As of Thursday, Trump reportedly at Mar-a-Lago Arrested in Florida and it was not yet clear when he would be arrested.
The news of the indictment was surprising but not unexpected. Legal and media observers have been preparing for a possible indictment against Trump for weeks when a Manhattan grand jury heard evidence regarding a $130,000 payment to an adult performer. Stormy Danielswhose real name is Stephanie Clifford, claims she had sex with Trump in 2006, something he denies.
Daniels’ attorney tweeted Thursday evening that the charges were “not welcome.”
“The diligence and integrity of a grand jury must be respected,” he tweeted. “Let truth and justice prevail. No one is above the law.” #Team Storm“
