Former US President Donald Trump has been fined $1,000 for breaching a gag order during his ongoing criminal trial in New York over alleged hush money payments. The fine was imposed after Trump discussed the jury selection process publicly in a broadcast interview. This incident marked Trump’s tenth contempt of court violation, prompting Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the trial, to warn that future violations could lead to imprisonment.

The trial, which has drawn intense public attention, involves 34 felony counts brought against Trump, relating to accusations that he falsified business records during the 2016 presidential campaign. These records pertain to payments allegedly made to silence Stormy Daniels, an adult film actress claiming to have had an affair with Trump, which he denies.

Testimony has been provided by several key figures, including former Trump Organization controller Jeffrey McConney and former aide Hope Hicks. The proceedings have highlighted how such payments were reportedly recorded as legal expenses within the organization.

Trump has publicly contested the charges, insisting on his innocence and criticizing Justice Merchan. However, despite his confrontational stance, the judge has stressed the imperative of upholding the rule of law.

The trial, the first to prosecute a former American president on felony charges, continues to be a focal point of both media scrutiny and public interest, revealing intricate details about financial practices and political strategies during Trump’s campaign. As the legal proceedings advance, further testimonies and evidence are anticipated.