Donald Trump’s legal battle in Manhattan over a hush-money conviction faces another hurdle as a judge denies claims of juror misconduct.
At a Glance
- Trump’s lawyers allege juror misconduct violated his constitutional rights.
- Judge Juan Merchan rejected these claims due to lack of sworn evidence.
- Prosecutors labeled the claims as vague and inaccurate.
- Trump criticized the decision on Truth Social, asserting judicial bias.
Courtroom Decision
A Manhattan judge rejected Donald Trump’s appeal to overturn his hush-money conviction. The appeal cited juror misconduct, alleging a juror contacted Trump’s legal team. However, Judge Juan Merchan ruled that there was insufficient evidence to support such claims. Details of the misconduct remain unclear, as the letter containing them is heavily redacted. The judge emphasized the importance of sworn allegations when considering claims of misconduct.
President-elect Donald Trump's lawyers have urged a judge to overturn his conviction on criminal charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star because of alleged juror misconduct https://t.co/ywiT6oucDb pic.twitter.com/LEmIZLRBpe
— Reuters Legal (@ReutersLegal) December 17, 2024
In contrast, Trump’s attorneys argued that the unidentified juror’s actions compromised Trump’s constitutional rights. Trump’s legal team has previously attempted various legal strategies to overturn his conviction, including moving the case to federal court. They argue that partisan motivations influenced the trial’s proceedings, including within the jury room.
Legal Implications and Reactions
The Manhattan District Attorney labeled the juror misconduct claims as vague and inaccurate. Trump, currently facing 34 felony counts related to hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels, criticized Judge Merchan’s decision on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump’s earlier motion to dismiss the conviction, citing presidential immunity, was also denied by the court.
“Allegations of juror misconduct should be thoroughly investigated. However, this Court is prohibited from deciding such claims on the basis of mere hearsay and conjecture.” – Judge Juan Merchan
Trump’s legal team has criticized the handling of the misconduct allegations. They claim evidence suggesting bias, although specific details remain undisclosed. This decision highlights the ongoing legal challenges Trump faces as he prepares for his presidential inauguration. The case underscores the balance between legal entanglements and forthcoming responsibilities of presidential office.
Donald Trump's lawyers are urging the judge in his criminal hush money case to throw out his conviction based on unsworn allegations of "grave juror misconduct." https://t.co/vldgC9mcqr
— ABC News (@ABC) December 17, 2024
Broader Consequences
The court’s rejection of juror misconduct claims marks another legal setback for Trump. His attorneys insist the allegations cast doubt on the jury’s impartiality. Despite the setbacks, Trump’s defense continues to explore options to challenge the conviction. The unsealed letter revealing unsworn statements outlines the ongoing complexities in this high-stakes case. Judge Merchan reiterated the need for substantial evidence for appeals on such claims.
“The jury in this case was not anywhere near fair and impartial” – Mr. Trump’s lawyers
The political and legal implications of this case continue to captivate the nation. Trump’s ongoing legal challenges as president-elect present unprecedented dynamics in American politics. This matter draws attention to the intricate balance between justice, political influence, and the responsibilities of high office. As Trump prepares for inauguration, his legal team remains undeterred, pursuing alternative avenues to contest the conviction.
Sources
1. Trump Accuses Juror of Misconduct in Latest Move to Overturn Conviction
2. Trump claims jury misconduct in latest attempt to discredit hush money conviction
