Topline
New York City police increased its security detail around the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the nearby criminal courthouse Monday night, as photos show reporters and others waiting overnight for an opportunity to catch a glimpse of former President Donald Trump’s arraignment Tuesday.
People line up for court access outside Manhattan Criminal Court.
Key Facts
The New York Police Department has placed steel barricades by Trump Tower, around the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office as it “remains ready to respond as needed,” it said in a statement to Axios.
A judge has ruled that no news cameras or electronic devices—including cell phones or laptops—would be allowed in the courtroom, causing some reporters to line up outside a full day in advance, according to the New York Times.
Trump is scheduled to be arraigned at the criminal court at 2:15 p.m. Eastern time, the court confirmed, where his attorneys say he will plead not guilty to charges stemming from “hush money” payments to Stormy Daniels.
Police barricade Hogan Place, where the entrance to the Manhattan District Attorney’s office is … [+]
A police officer stands outside the Manhattan District Attorney’s office.
Police guard the entrance to the Manhattan District Attorney’s offices outside Manhattan Criminal … [+]
A line for court access is formed outside Manhattan Criminal Court.
Journalists gather across the street from Manhattan Criminal Court.
Police officers secure the perimeter outside Manhattan Criminal Court.
What To Watch For
Trump will deliver a statement at his Mar-A-Lago, Florida residence Tuesday night after he is arraigned, according to his campaign.
Key Background
Trump, who has been investigated by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office since 2019, reportedly faces up to 34 felony counts for falsifying business records. A spokesperson for Trump, who has denied claims he had an affair with Daniels and called his indictment a “Witch-Hunt,” suggested Tuesday that the former president’s legal team had not been briefed on the indictment. Both Trump and attorney Alina Habba claim Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg “illegally LEAKED” information on the “pathetic indictment.” A conviction can result in up to four years in prison—though it is unlikely Trump will face prison time as a first-time offender.
Further Reading
Trump’s Arraignment: Here’s What Time He’ll Appear In Court And How To Get Updates (Forbes)
Trump’s Arraignment: No News Cameras Inside Courtroom During Hearing, Judge Rules (Forbes)
Trump Faces 34 Felony Counts For Falsifying Records, Report says (Forbes)
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush/2023/04/04/photos-manhattan-officials-and-reporters-prepare-overnight-for-trumps-arraignment/