New York, April 8, 2024
In a significant development, a New York judge has denied former President Donald Trump's request to postpone his upcoming criminal trial set for April 15. The trial centers around allegations of paying hush money to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Associate Justice Lizbeth Gonzalez delivered the decision following a brief hearing at the Appellate Division in Manhattan.
Trump's legal counsel, represented by lawyer Emil Bove, had sought to delay the trial and potentially relocate it, citing concerns about impartiality. However, the prosecution countered, arguing that Trump's objection to being tried in Manhattan came too late in the legal process. The charges against Trump were initially filed in April 2023, and he has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records.
During the proceedings, Trump's defense team highlighted the results of a survey conducted among Manhattan residents, revealing a significant percentage believed Trump to be guilty and held negative opinions of him. Bove emphasized the potential prejudice this could introduce to the trial, particularly in jury selection.
On the other hand, the prosecution dismissed Trump's reliance on media attention as grounds for relocation, pointing out that Trump himself had contributed to the publicity surrounding the case.
If the trial proceeds as scheduled, it would mark a historic moment, being the first criminal trial for a former US president in American history.
Further updates on this case are anticipated as the trial date approaches.
