Former President Donald Trump has been indicted by a grand jury in Manhattan, New York. In the upcoming days, his formal charges will become publically known. Trump’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, believes his client may be arraigned in court sometime next week.
The New York District Attorney’s office has been investigating allegations against the former president and adult film star Stormy Daniels. During the 2016 presidential election, Trump allegedly played a hand in a hush money payment scheme and cover-up involving Daniels.
The Former President’s Alleged Affair
The investigation into the affair began under Cy Vance while Trump was in office. Investigators became suspicious of the payment when they discovered Trump’s organization reimbursed Cohen for the payment to Daniels.
During Cohen’s federal prosecution trial, investigators discovered that Trump Organization executives authorized payments to him totaling $420,000. Allegedly these payments were to cover the initial payment of $130,00 with added funds for tax liabilities and a bonus. The former president’s organization noted the reimbursement payments as legal expenses. Trump has always stated he was unaware of such payments.
First Ever US President to Be Indicted
Trump is now the first ever current or former president to ever receive criminal charges in the United States. News of this indictment has created an array of mixed feelings across social media platforms.
Some believe it was a long time in the making, others believe Trump is correct and it’s just a “witch hunt.”
Cohen stated that he took “no pride” in announcing Trump’s indictment. However, he added that he takes “solace in validating the adage that no one is above the law; not even a former President.” Furthermore, the former personal attorney stated he stands by his “official testimony and evidence he [gave] to DANY.”
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
Yahoo!: Gasps Heard During Fox News’ Announcement of Donald Trump’s Indictment in Stormy Daniels Case
CNN: Donald Trump indicted by Manhattan grand jury
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Patrick Feller‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Gage Skidmore‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
