According to officials familiar with the situation, the U.S. Secret Service took proactive measures by holding meetings and devising plans in case former President Donald Trump faced the possibility of being held in contempt during his criminal hush money trial. They were specifically preparing for a scenario where Judge Juan Merchan decided to send him to short-term confinement.
Merchan kept the decision on hold after a heated hearing on Tuesday. At this stage, prosecutors are only looking for a fine.
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Assistant District Attorney Chris Conroy has stated that they are not currently pursuing a prison sentence for the defendant. However, it appears that the defendant is actively trying to push for such a penalty.
According to officials, there is no certainty that Merchan would confine Trump in a holding cell within the courthouse. However, they are making preparations for any potential unforeseen circumstances.
As of now, no discussions have taken place regarding the course of action if Trump is convicted and subsequently sentenced to prison.
The ex-president currently faces trial for felony charges. These charges stem from allegations of falsifying business records to conceal the reimbursement of a hush money payment. The payment, made by his former attorney Michael Cohen, was intended for adult film actress Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 presidential election.
The Secret Service chose not to provide any specific details regarding their plans in this matter.
According to a statement from the agency, the United States Secret Service is required by federal law to offer protection to current government leaders, former Presidents and First Ladies, visiting heads of state, and other individuals designated by the President of the United States. The agency further explains that they conduct extensive research on various locations and create comprehensive and layered protective strategies that incorporate advanced technology, protective intelligence, and cutting-edge security tactics to ensure the safety of their protectees. However, the agency refrains from providing specific details about their protective operations.
According to prosecutors, Trump has violated the limited gag order multiple times this month. The order specifically prohibits making statements about witnesses, jurors, and lawyers involved in the case, with the exception of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
According to Trump’s lawyers, prosecutors have failed to establish that Trump’s social media posts, which criticized Cohen and Daniels, were deliberate violations of the gag order. They argued that the former president was merely defending himself against attacks by the potential witnesses.
The defense lawyers further contended that the gag order lacks clarity and permits Trump to make “political” statements.
