Former President Donald Trump is set to undergo an interview with New York probation officials on Monday, a necessary step before his sentencing in July for his criminal hush money case, as per three sources familiar with the arrangement.
Trump will participate in the interview via video conference from his residence at the Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, according to the sources who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity.
Although individuals convicted of crimes in New York typically meet with probation officials without their lawyers, Judge Juan Merchan, overseeing Trump’s case, has allowed Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche to be present for the interview.
The purpose of the pre-sentencing probation interview is to compile a report that provides the judge with more information about the defendant, aiding in the determination of an appropriate punishment for the crime.
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Presentence reports are usually prepared by a probation officer, social worker, or psychologist, involving interviews with the defendant, their family and friends, and those affected by the crime.
These reports detail the defendant’s personal history, criminal record, sentencing recommendations, employment status, and family care obligations, allowing the opportunity for the defendant to plead for a lighter sentence.
Trump was convicted by a jury of falsifying business records to silence potential troublemakers during his 2016 presidential campaign. He denies any wrongdoing and claims the case is a political move to damage his presidential prospects.
Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11, and Judge Merchan has the authority to choose from various penalties, including probation, community service, or up to four years in prison.
