22 Apr 2024 | 06:36 PM UTC
US: Heightened security, disruptions likely near Manhattan courthouse, New York, N.Y., until at least late May due to former President's trial
Disruptions, tight security likely in Lower Manhattan, New York, N.Y., US, through at least late May amid former President Trump's trial.
Heightened security, with associated ground transport disruptions, will likely continue through at least late May around the New York County Criminal Court building along 100 Centre Street in Lower Manhattan, New York, New York State, due to the ongoing trial involving former President Donald J. Trump.
Police will likely close roads, especially during hearings and while Trump, his lawyers, and the prosecution arrive and leave the courthouse. Protests and counter-protests in the area are possible, and gatherings are likely to become more prominent as the trial advances and around the time of the jury's decision.
Strictly heed instructions from authorities and allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Lower Manhattan during the duration of the trial.
Opening arguments for the trial began on April 22; observers estimate the trial is expected to last around six weeks. Former President Trump faces 34 felony charges of falsifying business records, and it is the first of what are likely to be four trials Trump faces in 2024.
There have been few protesters around the court in recent weeks, while the jury was being selected, but a man set himself on fire in the area on April 19, prompting an emergency response. The man's action appears to be unrelated with the trial.
Trump is the Republican Party's Presumptive nominee for President and will likely face current President Joe Biden in the presidential election, scheduled for November 5.
