In the ongoing hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump, prosecutors have taken a significant step, urging the court to fine him and hold him in contempt for violating a gag order through his social media posts.
During the hearing held on Tuesday, April 24, prosecutors pointed out ten instances where Trump allegedly breached the gag order by making remarks on his social media platforms and campaign website.
They argued that these posts were a direct violation of the court’s order, which prohibits attacks on witnesses, jurors, and other involved parties.
Prosecutor Christopher Conroy emphasized the seriousness of the violations, describing them as a “deliberate flouting” of the court’s instructions. He urged the judge to impose a $1,000 fine for each violation.
In response, Trump’s defense lawyer, Todd Blanche, argued that Trump’s comments were protected speech and were merely responses to criticism directed at him.
The hearing before Judge Juan Merchan highlighted the tension between the prosecution and Trump’s legal team, with the judge expressing frustration at what he perceived as a lack of compliance from Trump’s side.
This development comes amidst the backdrop of the hush money trial, which alleges that Trump sought to influence the 2016 presidential election by suppressing damaging stories about his personal life.
The trial, which is being closely watched, marks the first criminal trial of a former American president.
