Disgraced Trump Battles Web of Convictions and Charges as First Felon-in-Chief

Donald Trump, having returned to the White House as the first U.S. President with a criminal conviction, is embroiled in a complex web of legal battles that continue to unfold across various jurisdictions.

### New York Hush Money Case

One of the most significant cases involves Trump's conviction in New York for 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This case stems from his efforts to conceal hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels and another woman during the 2016 presidential campaign. On May 30, 2024, a Manhattan jury found Trump guilty of all charges, marking him as the first former president to be declared a felon[4,.

Despite the conviction, Judge Juan Merchan sentenced Trump to an "unconditional discharge" on January 10, 2025, meaning Trump will not face jail time, probation, or a fine, although the conviction remains on his record[3][5].

Trump had appealed to the Supreme Court to halt the sentencing, arguing that preparing for the sentencing while transitioning into the presidency imposed an "intolerable, unconstitutional burden" on him. However, this appeal was part of a broader strategy to delay or dismiss the proceedings, which ultimately did not succeed[1].

### Federal Cases in Washington, D.C. and Florida

In addition to the New York case, Trump faces federal charges in other jurisdictions. In Washington, D.C., Trump was indicted on charges including corruptly obstructing an official proceeding, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy to defraud the United States. However, on December 6, 2024, Judge Chutkan granted the government's motion to dismiss the case[3].

In the Southern District of Florida, Trump and his aides were indicted on charges related to the retention of national defense information, obstruction of justice, and making false statements. A federal judge dismissed the indictment in July 2024, ruling that Special Counsel Jack Smith was improperly appointed. The Justice Department later dropped the appeal against Trump and his co-defendants[3].

### Georgia Election Interference Case

Trump is also facing charges in Georgia related to his alleged role in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. He was indicted on 13 charges, including racketeering, although three of these charges were later dismissed. The case is ongoing, with a hearing tentatively set for October 2024[4].

### Civil Fraud Case in New York

Apart from criminal cases, Trump is involved in a significant civil fraud case in New York. The case, brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleges that Trump and his business associates inflated the value of his assets to secure better terms from banks and insurance companies. In February 2025, Judge Arthur Engoron ordered Trump and his co-defendants to pay $364 million in penalties and barred Trump from running a business in New York for three years. The judgment has since increased to over $457 million with interest[4].

### Legal and Political Implications

These legal entanglements pose significant challenges for Trump as he begins his new term in office. The unconditional discharge in the New York case, while avoiding immediate punishment, leaves the conviction intact, which could have long-term political and legal repercussions. The ongoing cases in other jurisdictions continue to cast a shadow over his presidency, highlighting the unprecedented nature of his legal situation[5].

As these cases continue to evolve, they will likely remain a focal point of public and legal scrutiny, influencing both Trump's presidency and the broader landscape of U.S. politics.