Former President Donald Trump is set to have an interview with New York probation officials on Monday, a necessary step before his sentencing in July for his criminal case involving hush money. Three sources familiar with the plan shared that Trump will participate in the interview via video conference from his residence at the Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida. The sources spoke anonymously as they were not authorized to publicly disclose the details.
Trump will be accompanied by his lawyer, Todd Blanche, during the interview. Typically, individuals convicted of crimes in New York meet with probation officials without their lawyers present. However, Judge Juan Merchan allowed Blanche to be present, as stated in a letter on Friday.
The primary purpose of this pre-sentencing probation interview is to compile a report that provides the judge with more information about the defendant. This report could help determine the appropriate punishment for the crime.
These reports are usually prepared by probation officers, social workers, or psychologists from the probation department. They interview the defendant, as well as potentially their family, friends, and those affected by the crime.
Donald Trump walks out of the courtroom to make comments (Via Randy Simmons/Shutterstock)
The report includes details about the defendant’s personal history, criminal record, and recommendations for sentencing. It also covers employment details and any responsibilities the defendant might have towards family members. Additionally, it gives the defendant an opportunity to explain why they believe they should receive a lighter sentence.
Trump was convicted by a jury of falsifying business records at his company as part of a scheme to prevent individuals from disclosing potentially embarrassing stories about him during the 2016 presidential campaign. One such payment, totaling $130,000, was made to porn actress Stormy Daniels, who claimed to have had a sexual encounter with Trump, an allegation he denied.
