Politics

Trump Formally Arrested at New York Courthouse Ahead of Arraignment

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Trump Formally Arrested at New York Courthouse Ahead of Arraignment

Prosecutors accuse the former US leader of falsifying business records "to conceal damaging information and unlawful activity" from voters before and after the presidential election in 2016. 

An extraordinary moment in U.S History as Trump, the chosen Republican candidate for the 2024 Presidential elections is formally arrested. 

Trump is accused of orchestrating a payment of $130,000 (£104,000) to Stormy Daniels 12 days before his triumphant 2016 presidential election. Allegedly, the hush money circumvents Ms Daniels, real name Stephanie Clifford, from discussing prior encounters with Trump at a hotel in Lake Tahoe in 2006.

Similarly, Trump is accused of transferring $150,000 (£120,000) hush money to ex-Playboy model Karen McDougal.

Trump vehemently denies these allegations and his involvement in the payments to both women although according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Trump signed nine of the 11 cheques for a "phoney purpose."

Each cheque was processed by the Trump Organization and falsely represented as payment for legal services, according to Mr Bragg.

Trump states there is “No case” and that "There was nothing done illegally."

Trump referred to the indictment as a "Witch-hunt" and an effort to undermine his chances of winning. 

The majority of the observers outside the Trump Towers are holding placards in support of the indictment, despite Trump's claims that his indictment would prompt "death and destruction" from his MAGA supporters.

A third allegation centres around an alleged $30,000 (£24,000) payment to a former Trump Tower doorman.

Mr Trump is anticipated to be charged with 36 crimes.