New York prosecutors are seeking a pause in the prosecution of former President Donald Trump until at least 2029, as his legal team prepares to request a dismissal of the case. On Tuesday, prosecutors sent a letter to Judge Juan Merchan, who previously agreed to halt all deadlines in the case as Trump prepares for his inauguration as President on January 20, 2025.
This pause follows the November 5, 2024, election results, where Trump was elected for a second term. In the letter, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg noted that it is necessary to consider how Trump’s presidency could impact ongoing criminal proceedings. He suggested that the remaining legal matters could be deferred until Trump’s presidential term concludes, which could be as late as 2029.
Bragg indicated that his office would not oppose Trump’s request for a stay while his attorneys file a motion to have the charges dismissed. Trump’s spokesman, Steven Cheung, hailed this decision as a significant victory for Trump and his supporters, claiming it demonstrates that the “Witch Hunt” against him cannot persist.
Despite the pause, Bragg stated that prosecutors plan to oppose Trump’s motion to dismiss the charges entirely. Trump’s legal team had previously asked that the guilty verdict be overturned, arguing that the former President enjoys substantial immunity based on actions taken while in office. Trump’s attorneys contend that certain evidence used against him should not have been allowed during the trial.
The legal battle follows Trump’s plea of not guilty to charges related to falsifying business records. He was convicted earlier this year after an unprecedented trial in New York. Trump’s lawyers are fighting back, asserting that the case against him is politically motivated and should be dismissed on grounds of presidential immunity.
As Trump gears up to reclaim the presidency, the legal proceedings in New York will continue to attract significant attention and may play a crucial role in his political future.
