Manhattan prosecutors are urging a New York judge to uphold crucial components of a gag order against former President Donald Trump, citing concerns that his inflammatory rhetoric is inciting threats against their staff and their loved ones. The request comes as Trump faces sentencing on July 11 for his involvement in a hush money scheme to silence two women who alleged affairs with him.
The prosecutors, led by Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr., argue that Trump’s continued public statements have put their team at risk of harm. They point to a recent incident in which a member of their staff received a threatening message from a Trump supporter, warning them to drop the case against the former president or face consequences.
In court filings, the prosecutors highlight several instances in which Trump has made derogatory remarks about their investigation, calling it a “witch hunt” and a politically motivated attack. They claim that his words have galvanized his followers to take action against those involved in the case, creating a hostile environment for their team.
The gag order, which was initially imposed to prevent Trump from prejudicing the case through his public comments, has been a source of contention throughout the legal proceedings. Trump’s legal team has argued that the order infringes on his First Amendment rights and limits his ability to defend himself against the charges.
However, the prosecutors maintain that the order is necessary to ensure a fair trial and protect the safety of their staff. They are asking the judge to extend the order until after Trump’s sentencing, citing the heightened risk of violence as the case nears its conclusion.
The hush money scheme at the center of the case involved payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to keep them from speaking out about their alleged affairs with Trump. The payments were made through Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who has since cooperated with prosecutors and provided evidence against the former president.
Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case, claiming that the payments were made for legitimate reasons and not to influence the election. However, the prosecutors have presented evidence to the contrary, including recorded conversations between Trump and Cohen discussing the payments.
As the case moves toward sentencing, tensions between Trump and the prosecutors have escalated. Trump has continued to lash out against the investigation, accusing the prosecutors of bias and misconduct. In response, the prosecutors have sought to limit his ability to comment on the case publicly, fearing that his words could incite violence against their team.
The judge overseeing the case will now have to weigh the competing interests of free speech and safety as they consider the prosecutors’ request. The decision could have far-reaching implications for the future of the case and the ongoing legal battles surrounding Trump’s presidency.
In the meantime, the prosecutors are taking steps to ensure the safety of their staff, including increasing security measures and monitoring threats against their team. They are also urging the public to remain calm and respectful as the case moves forward, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of the justice system.
As the deadline for sentencing approaches, all eyes will be on the courtroom as the final chapter of this high-profile case unfolds. The outcome could have significant implications for Trump’s future and the broader political landscape, shaping the legacy of his presidency for years to come.
