US President-elect Donald Trump has been handed a no-penalty sentence following his conviction in the Stormy Daniels hush money case.
The incoming US president has received an unconditional discharge – meaning he will not face jail time, probation or a fine.
The sentencing in Manhattan comes days before the 78-year-old is due to be inaugurated as US president for a second time on 20 January.
Trump appeared at the hearing by videolink and addressed the court before he was sentenced, telling the judge the case has been a “very terrible experience” for him.
He claimed the case was handled inappropriately and by someone connected with his political opponents – referring to Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg.
Trump said: “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election.
“This has been a political witch hunt.
“I am totally innocent. I did nothing wrong.”
Concluding his statement, he said: “I was treated very unfairly and I thank you very much.”
