Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg has taken a significant step in the ongoing legal battle involving former President Trump by calling on Judge Juan Merchan to hold Trump in contempt of court. This move came shortly after the second day of Trump's trial concerning hush money payments commenced in Manhattan.
The motion filed by Bragg pertains to a gag order issued by Judge Merchan, which prohibits Trump from making public statements about prosecutors, witnesses, court officials, and their families. Bragg's motion alleges that Trump deliberately violated this order by posting on social media, targeting two key witnesses, Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
In the motion, Bragg emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of both the public and trial participants. He asserts that Trump's actions constitute a direct challenge to the integrity of the ongoing trial and must be addressed promptly.
The motion stresses the necessity for Trump to cease any behavior that could undermine the trial's integrity and emphasizes the need for potential consequences, including criminal contempt findings and sanctions, to uphold the court's authority.
By seeking to hold Trump accountable for his alleged violations of the gag order, Bragg aims to send a clear message that the judicial system is prepared to safeguard the legal process and maintain order in the face of provocative actions by the defendant.
