United States: Former United States President Mr. Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty in New York City to a string of charges linked to hush money payments ahead of the 2016 presidential vote, including one made to an adult film star.

Mr. Trump, who is the first former president to be criminally prosecuted in the country’s history, entered a Manhattan courtroom to formally hear the accusations against him.

“The Republican leader faces 34 felony charges of falsifying New York business records to conceal damaging information and unlawful activity from American voters before and after the 2016 election,” the Manhattan district attorney’s office remarked as the indictment was unsealed.

Mr. Alvin Bragg, the prosecutor overseeing the case, commented that the so-called “catch and kill scheme” included three payoffs, including $130,000 paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

“As this office has done time and time again, we today uphold our solemn responsibility to ensure that everyone stands equal before the law. No amount of money and no amount of power changes that enduring American principle,” Mr. Bragg added during a news conference.

“Not guilty,” the 76-year-old Mr. Trump told the Manhattan court when asked how he pleaded.

The Republican leader, who is seeking re-election in 2024, has denied any wrongdoing and denounced the case as a “witch hunt.”

“Heading to Lower Manhattan, the Courthouse Seems so SURREAL – WOW, they are going to ARREST ME. I cannot believe this is happening in America,” Mr. Trump posted on social media before his arrival at the Manhattan court.

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