Former U.S. President Donald Trump was arrested and charged with 34 felonies related to falsifying business records in a Manhattan criminal court on Tuesday, April 4.

Prosecutors accused Trump, who pled not guilty, of undermining the 2016 election's integrity by participating in illegal hush-money payments involving at least three people with information that could have damaged his presidential bid.

The District Attorney said it would prove Trump knowingly falsified New York business records to conceal criminal conduct and suppress damaging information from the public.

Post-arraignment, Trump flew to Florida and addressed supporters at Mar-a-Lago, discussing the indictment and his 2024 campaign strategy.

Despite Judge Merchan's warning against jeopardizing the rule of law or inciting unrest, Trump criticized both DA Alvin Bragg and the judge.

Trump's defense has until August 8, 2023, to file motions, with the prosecution responding by September 19. Judge Merchan will rule on the motions at the December 4 in-person hearing.

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