In a surprising legal development, US President-elect Donald Trump has been sentenced to “unconditional discharge” after being convicted on charges related to hush money payments. The ruling means that Trump is spared from jail time or a fine, marking a conclusion to the highly publicized case.

Appearing via video link alongside his lawyer in a New York courtroom, Trump remained composed as the verdict was announced. The prosecution did not request any prison time, probation, or fines, a recommendation that was ultimately adopted by the judge overseeing the case.

Trump addressed the court, calling the legal proceedings a “terrible experience” and reiterating his claim of innocence. His attorney added that the charges should never have been brought in the first place, emphasizing that the case was baseless from the start.

Judge Merchan, who presided over the case, called it an “extraordinary case” that had garnered widespread attention. Despite the media frenzy surrounding the matter, he stated that the proceedings themselves were typical of any ordinary court case.

The case stemmed from a series of hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Last May, Trump was convicted on 34 counts related to the payments, which were made during the 2016 presidential campaign. The charges focused on how these payments were reimbursed, a move that led to allegations of campaign finance violations.

While Trump’s legal team celebrated the verdict as a win, the case has continued to fuel political debate and raise questions about campaign financing and accountability. The lack of jail time for Trump has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporters applauding the decision, while others criticize the perceived leniency.

As the story unfolds, Trump’s legal battles are far from over, but this particular chapter has concluded with a sentence of unconditional discharge, allowing the President-elect to move forward without facing further legal repercussions.