(TheRedWire.com) – The trial of former President Donald Trump, related to hush money payments, happened Monday in New York City with stringent security measures in place.
Statements issued on Friday by the U.S. Secret Service, the New York City Police Department, and the New York State Unified Court System announced a joint effort to maintain a high level of security during the legal proceedings.
Patrick J. Freaney, the special agent in charge at the Secret Service’s New York field office, emphasized their readiness to ensure the former president’s safety without requiring any special accommodations beyond those necessary to fulfill their protective duties.
The charges against Trump involve the falsification of business records connected to payments made by his former attorney, Michael Cohen, to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. These were allegedly made to suppress information about an affair prior to the 2016 election, marking this trial as both the first for Trump and the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president.
Despite Trump’s efforts to postpone the trial until after Election Day, citing excessive media attention that could bias jurors, these motions have been denied.
Edward Caban, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, described the preparation for the trial as familiar territory for the police, due to their extensive experience in managing security for high-profile events. He highlighted the collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in securing the courthouse, ensuring peaceful public gatherings, and managing traffic around the area.
Michael Magliano, Chief of the Department at the New York State Unified Court System, also confirmed their readiness. He noted that court officers are well-trained to handle prominent trials, ensuring the safety of participants, media, and the public.
Jury selection for the trial happened Monday, with proceedings expected to last between six to eight weeks. Trump is mandated to be present in court daily throughout the duration of the trial.
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