New York, NY – As the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump approaches later this month for alleged business records fraud, New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan has made a significant ruling. He has decided to keep the identities of jurors shielded from the public but known to the legal teams, Trump, and his advisors.
The move comes in response to concerns about potential harassment or tampering with jurors. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg had requested this protection, citing previous instances where prosecutors, judges, and their staff had received threats and harassment from Trump supporters. This decision aims to ensure a fair trial free from outside interference.
Despite the protective order for juror identities, Merchan made it clear in his ruling that the jury selection process will remain open to the public. This transparency reinforces the principles of justice and accountability in such high-profile cases.
Trump, who is currently seeking another run for the presidency, faces 34 counts of falsifying business records, a felony in New York. The charges stem from allegations that he orchestrated a scheme to pay hush money to an adult-film star during the 2016 campaign and later falsified records to cover it up.
Through his legal team, Trump has maintained his innocence and dismissed the charges as politically motivated. He contends that the indictments against him are part of a broader effort to undermine his political aspirations.
The upcoming trial, scheduled to begin on March 25, would mark a historic moment as the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president. The proceedings are expected to draw significant attention as the legal battle unfolds.