Donald Trump, the first former and president-elect to be convicted of a crime, was found guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This verdict stemmed from the Manhattan District Attorney’s investigation into hush money payments made during the 2016 presidential campaign.
This timeline chronicles the key events in the “Hush Money Case,” from Trump’s presidential candidacy announcement to his conviction and subsequent legal challenges.
From Campaign Trail to Courtroom: The Evolution of the Hush Money Case
2015: Trump announces his presidential candidacy and allegedly strikes a deal with American Media Inc. (AMI), owner of the National Enquirer, to suppress negative stories. AMI pays off a former Trump Tower doorman and Playboy model Karen McDougal, allegedly with the understanding of future reimbursement from Trump.
2016: AMI negotiates a $130,000 payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to silence her allegations of an affair with Trump. Trump allegedly directs his attorney, Michael Cohen, to make the payment and promises reimbursement. The “Access Hollywood” tape surfaces, further fueling concerns about damaging information impacting the election.
2017: Trump allegedly reimburses Cohen through a series of monthly payments disguised as legal expenses. Meetings and interactions between Trump and AMI CEO David Pecker raise further questions about coordination and intent.
2018: The FBI raids Cohen’s office and residences. Cohen pleads guilty to campaign finance violations related to the hush money payments, implicating Trump in the scheme. AMI admits to “catch and kill” practices.
Investigations, Indictments, and Legal Maneuvering
2021-2023: The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, under Cyrus Vance and later Alvin Bragg, investigates the hush money payments. A grand jury is convened, hearing testimony from key figures like Pecker and Cohen. Trump is indicted on 34 felony counts.
2024: Trump’s trial begins, featuring testimony from Pecker, Cohen, Stormy Daniels, and other insiders. He is found guilty on all counts and sentenced. Trump vows to appeal. Legal battles continue over gag orders, evidence admissibility, and potential conflicts of interest.
2025: Trump is re-elected president, raising complex questions about presidential immunity and the future of the case. Judge Merchan sentences Trump to an unconditional discharge, citing respect for the presidency. Trump’s legal team initiates appeals. The newly appointed Attorney General launches a working group to investigate alleged “weaponization” of government against Trump.
The Hush Money Case’s Lasting Impact
The hush money case remains a significant chapter in American legal and political history. It resulted in the first-ever criminal conviction of a former U.S. president, raising fundamental questions about accountability, campaign finance laws, and the intersection of politics and the justice system. The legal battles continue, leaving the ultimate outcome and its long-term implications uncertain.
Former President Donald Trump appears in court with his legal team for an arraignment on charges stemming from his indictment by a Manhattan grand jury, in New York City, April 4, 2023.
Former President Donald Trump arrives to speak during a press conference following his court appearance over an alleged 'hush-money' payment, at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., on April 4, 2023.
Former President Donald Trump appears with his legal team Todd Blanche, and Emil Bove ahead of the start of jury selection at Manhattan Criminal Court, Apr. 15, 2024, in New York City.
Attorney Emil Bove looks on as President-elect Donald Trump appears remotely for a sentencing hearing in front of New York State Judge Juan Merchan at New York Criminal Court in Manhattan in New York City, Jan. 10, 2025.Former President Donald Trump makes remarks at the end of the day during his criminal trial at Manhattan Criminal Court, May 29, 2024, in New York City.(https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/8073616f-067b-4db8-a1f7-4b9531e84946/donald-trump-4-gty-gmh-240529_1717019952926_hpMain.jpg)
