A judge in Donald Trump's hush-money criminal trial has extended a gag order to shield his family from the former president's attacks. The judge amended the ban after Trump made false claims about a Democratic political consultant, the judge's daughter, on social media.
The amended gag order now prohibits Trump from targeting the judge's family and the Manhattan District Attorney's family in his rhetoric. The judge emphasized that attacking family members of court officials serves no legitimate purpose and only instills fear in those involved in the case.
Violation of the gag order could lead to Trump being held in contempt of court, fined, or even jailed. Trump's lawyer declined to comment on the matter.
Trump's hush-money case involves allegations of falsifying payments to his former lawyer to cover up negative stories during the 2016 campaign. Trump pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records, denying any wrongdoing.
Following Trump's social media posts targeting the judge's daughter, the judge expanded the gag order to protect the integrity of the judicial proceedings. Prosecutors urged the judge to clarify the scope of the order and direct Trump to cease attacks on family members.
Trump's lawyers raised constitutional concerns about restricting his speech while campaigning for president and facing criminal charges. They plan to seek the judge's recusal based on new evidence.
The expanded gag order now includes protection for the families of the judge and the district attorney. Trump risks forfeiting his right to know the jurors' identities if he engages in conduct that threatens their safety or integrity.
The judge emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of all participants in the legal proceedings, highlighting the need to prevent personal attacks on their loved ones.
