Former Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr., who was Alvin Bragg’s predecessor, said over the weekend that he does not believe that the court will sentence former President Donald Trump to jail after he was convicted on 34 felony counts last week.
Vance made the remarks during a Sunday interview on NBC News’ “Meet The Press” while talking about what potential sentence could be imposed on Trump if his conviction is not overturned during appeals.
“These are the lowest-level, nonviolent felonies,” said guest host Peter Alexander. “They are punishable by a fine, probation, or up to four years in prison. Donald Trump turned 78 this month. He’s almost 80. He has no prior record. Here’s what he said this morning in an interview with Fox on the topic of possible jail time.”
Vance wouldn’t say whether or not he would recommend jail time because he didn’t think it was his place to comment.
“If you ask me do I think the court will impose jail in this case, as I said to you I think yesterday, I think not,” he said. “But ultimately, that’s Judge Merchan’s decision. The president has made this a little more complicated by having been found in contempt ten times during the court, but I think that with the proximity of the Republican convention four days after his sentencing and then if he is the candidate for the Republican Party the proximity of the election, I would be surprised that he would be sentenced to any imprisonment.”
“Now, that said, the court could adjourn sentencing until after the general election and then essentially decide then,” he continued.
WATCH:
WATCH: In a new interview, Donald Trump said he’s “OK” with the prospect of house arrest or jail.
Former Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance, Jr. says he does not think the former president will get jail time, but “ultimately, that’s Judge Merchan’s decision.” pic.twitter.com/VbrYQSNPTz
— Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) June 2, 2024