NEW YORK: Donald Trump has been indicted by Manhattan grand jury after probe into hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels, becoming first former US President to face criminal charges even as he makes another run for White House.

Specific charges are not yet known, as indictment remains under seal. CNN reported Trump faces more than 30 counts related to business fraud. Trump said he was “completely innocent” and indicated he would not drop out of 2024 presidential race. He accused Bragg, Democrat, of trying to hurt his chances of winning re-election against Democratic President Joe Biden. “This is Political Persecution and Election Interference at highest level in history,” he said in statement. Shortly after, Trump appealed to supporters to provide money for legal defense. He has raised over $ 2 million, according to his campaign, since he incorrectly predicted on March 18 that he would be arrested four days later.

Trump, frontrunner for 2024 Republican nomination according to polling, received support from number of his potential challengers including Florida Governor Ron Desantis and former Vice President Mike Pence. “This will only further serve to divide our country,” Pence said. Charges will likely be unsealed by judge in coming days. Trump will have to travel to Manhattan for fingerprinting and other processing at that point.

Bragg successfully prosecuted Trump’s business last year on tax-fraud charges, leading to  $ 1.61 million criminal penalty. Outside courthouse, several protesters silently held signs criticising Trump. Authorities bolstered security around courthouse after Donald Trump called for nationwide protests on March 18, recalling his charged rhetoric ahead of January 6, 2021, attack on US Capitol by his supporters. Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford has said she received money in exchange for keeping silent about sexual encounter she had with Trump in 2006.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 01 2023

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