Most people in New York have likely heard some semblance of news coverage regarding the trial of the man who had been the President’s campaign chairman during the last election. As reported by CBS News, this trial has concluded two days of jury deliberation with no verdict yet being returned. The jury will resume its deliberations after the weekend.
However, what many people may not be aware of is that even if the defendant is found innocent on all charges, his legal challenges are far from over. The man will actually be put on trial yet again just next month. While the first trial was conducted in Virginia based in part on the fact that the defendant was a resident there with a home owned in his name, the second trial will be held in the District of Columbia.
Among the charges in the first trial were bank fraud and tax fraud. In the second trial, the man will face allegations of money laundering, making false statements and conspiracy to defraud the United States.
If the defendant is found guilty on any charge, sentencing could vary dramatically. First, there are guidelines for jail or prison terms based on each charge. Then, a probation officer reviews the verdict to provide a recommended sentence but it is ultimately the judge in a case who determines the final sentence. The judge does not have to follow the pre-determined guidelines when making that decision. Current guidelines for the first trial could result in 12 to 15 years in prison for both bank and tax fraud.