On January 4, 2025, Manhattan Contrarian, authored by Francis Menton, discusses the unusual conclusion of Donald Trump's criminal prosecution that began with his conviction on May 30 for 34 felony counts of “falsifying business records. ” After various motions were denied by Judge Juan Merchan, sentencing was set for January 10, shortly before Trump's second inauguration.
Menton describes the court's Order as bizarre, considering it is a significant criminal case involving a former President who was also a presidential candidate. Convictions for all 34 felony counts were achieved. The prosecution team was composed of highly experienced lawyers, suggesting a substantial investment of resources, estimated at over $10 million.
In the Order, it was noted that an "unconditional discharge" was a potential outcome, meaning no penalty would be imposed. This raised questions about the necessity for extensive prosecution efforts if the result was simply to let Trump go free without conditions.
Menton argues that the case was not a genuine legal effort but instead a political maneuver aimed at undermining Trump as a presidential candidate. He suggests that the pretense of a legitimate prosecution has now fallen away, implying that the sentencing will allow Trump to appeal the convictions. He anticipates a favorable outcome for Trump in the appeals process, suggesting that the alleged felonies may not constitute actual crimes under legal standards.
Overall, Menton concludes that the prosecution's efforts have not resulted in any serious consequences for Trump and may have even benefitted his re-election campaign.
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