(VOVWORLD) - Donald Trump became the first US president to be convicted of a crime on Thursday when a New York jury found him guilty of falsifying documents to cover up a payment ahead of the 2016 election, Reuters reported.
 Former US President Donald Trump during a trial at Manhattan District Court in New York, US, May 6, 2024. Photo: AFP/VNA
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After two days of deliberation, the 12-member jury pronounced Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts he faced. The sentencing date is set for July 11, a few days before the Republican Party is scheduled to formally nominate Trump for president ahead of the Nov. 5 election.
After leaving the trial, Mr. Trump proclaimed his innocence and repeated his complaints that the trial had been rigged against him. "This was a disgrace," Trump told reporters.
Analysts say for the charges for which Mr. Trump was found guilty, his sentence could range from fines and restitution, or probation to imprisonment. Trump’s legal battle will not prevent him from running for president. The US Constitution does not bar felons from holding its highest office.