In recent news, former President Donald Trump was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying business records in a Manhattan courtroom. The jury found that Trump had caused the falsification of checks, invoices, and ledgers to conceal the payment of $130,000 to adult film actress Stormy Daniels shortly before the 2016 presidential election, with intent to conceal violations of campaign finance and tax laws. The conviction marked a significant moment in American politics as the first time a former president had been charged with a crime while in office or after leaving office. However, there have been several myths circulating about Trump's conviction that require clarification.
Myth 1: Depending on perspective, Trump's conviction was either a refreshing affirmation of the rule of law or a miscarriage of justice in a politically motivated prosecution. Fact: The jury returned a verdict based on the evidence presented in court and New York law.
Myth 2: Trump was charged with falsifying business records as a misdemeanor, but it is only a felony if there is an intent to conceal another crime. Fact: Under New York law, falsifying business records without any intent to commit or conceal another crime is a misdemeanor. An intent to conceal another crime brings enhanced penalties, such as a felony.
Myth 3: The Manhattan DA's office has filed charges for falsification of business records 9,794 times since 2015. Fact: This number is accurate but does not provide context about the nature or outcome of those cases.
Myth 4: Paying hush money itself is not a crime, but it is a crime to falsify business records with the intent to conceal other crimes. Fact: Both statements are true.
Myth 5: There is no evidence that the case against Trump was brought to interfere with an election. Fact: The Manhattan District Attorney's office has stated there is no evidence of political motivation in bringing the charges against Trump.
Myth 6: Justice Juan Merchan's decision not to recuse himself was confirmed by the New York Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics. Fact: Yes, this is true.
Myth 7: Expert witnesses cannot testify about law in trials. Fact: Expert witnesses can testify in trials to assist the jury in understanding facts about matters beyond ordinary understanding, but they cannot testify about law.
Myth 8: The gag order restricted the defense from making statements outside of court that targeted witnesses, jurors, staff and family members of the court and prosecution team. Fact: Yes, this is true.
Myth 9: Trump may appeal his conviction after he is sentenced on July 11. The case could not go before the U.S. Supreme Court until he exhausts all of his appeals in the New York state court system, which likely will take more than a year. Fact: Yes, this is true.
In conclusion, it's essential to separate fact from fiction when discussing Trump's conviction and ensure that any information shared is accurate and unbiased.
