3-30-2023 8:02pm

Unprecedented: NY Grand Jury Votes To Indict Trump Over Alleged Hush Money Payment

Samantha Hespos Editor

New York

According to the New York Times, a grand jury in New York has decided to indict former President Donald Trump on charges of falsifying business records prior to the 2016 election. This is significant as it is the first time a former president has faced criminal charges.

CBS News has received confirmation of the indictment from Susan Necheles, who is representing Trump as his attorney.

As of 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office had not revealed the exact charge or charges being brought.

According to The New York Times, the indictment that is sealed comprises of a felony charge or charges.

At the heart of the matter is a payment of $130,000 that Trump purportedly gave to adult film actress Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 presidential election in order to hide a supposed romantic relationship.

In 2006, during his marriage to his current wife and former first lady Melania Trump, Daniels alleges that she had sexual intercourse with Trump.

Despite being impeached twice as president, Trump, who is 76 years old, has consistently refuted claims of having engaged in a sexual relationship with Daniels and has denied any involvement in any wrongdoing related to the matter.

On Truth Social Thursday evening, Trump issued a statement denouncing the indictment as both political persecution and election interference.

"The individuals identified as Thugs and Radical Left Monsters have demonstrated contempt towards the 45th President of the United States of America and the foremost Republican Candidate, who is considerably ahead in the race for the 2024 Nomination for President," articulated Trump.

The highest punishment for a felony offense of tampering with business records in New York is imprisonment for up to four years.

There are 23 Manhattan residents who make up the grand jury.

This story is still developing.