Trump pleads not guilty to 34 counts

Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records and conspiracy related to his alleged role in hush money payments to two women.

Trump, the first former president to ever face criminal charges, is expected to be released on his own recognizance.

Judge Juan Merchan unsealed the indictment in the brief proceeding, according to multiple reports, but details about the charges are still uncertain.

The charges are related to a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy playmate Karen McDougal ahead of the 2016 election.

During the proceedings, prosecutors alleged that Trump made "threatening" social media posts and statements ahead of the arraignment, NBC reported.

Trump ignored questions from reporters as he left the courtroom.

He is slated to return to his Palm Beach, Florida, home, where he will give remarks Tuesday evening. 

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg held his own press conference at 4 p.m. ET regarding the indictment.

Trump and other Republicans have said criticized Bragg and said the investigation is politically motivated.

This is a developing story ...