Former President Donald Trump may face jail time for disobeying a gag order set by Manhattan court Judge Juan Merchan.
After fining Trump $1,000 for another breach of the gag order, the judge expressed doubts about the effectiveness of fines in deterring violations.
Trump is currently standing trial in Manhattan on 34 felony charges related to falsifying business records, as per NewsNow.
Fox News confirms that Merchan had initially instructed Trump not to make any public statements concerning potential witnesses or legal counsel involved in the case.
Allegations of numerous gag order breaches by Trump have been made by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and prosecutors.
Merchan stated during a hearing that if the violations persist, the court will have to consider the possibility of imposing a jail sentence.
Expressing reluctance about the idea of imprisonment, Merchan acknowledged the significance of Trump’s status as a former and potential future President.
“The gravity of this matter is not lost on me. Your persistent violation of the court’s directives amounts to a direct challenge that cannot be tolerated,” Merchan stated.
Trump and his legal team have contended that the gag order infringes on his First Amendment rights and the rights of his supporters, arguing against its imposition.