Former California Superior Court Judge LaDoris Cordell is advocating for stricter penalties, including imprisonment, for former President Donald Trump if he violates a gag order imposed by a New York court.

Cordell emphasized the necessity of swift consequences should Trump disregard a court directive, particularly the gag order issued by Judge Juan Merchan in the New York hush money criminal case.

Former judge suggests Trump needs to be jailed when he breaks gag order: ‘Bring your toothbrush’ https://t.co/vYMo0hjzS1 https://t.co/vYMo0hjzS1

— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) April 1, 2024

The remarks

Should Trump break the boundaries of the gag order, Cordell asserts that incarceration should be the only recourse, stating, "Prepare to be jailed, Donald Trump, because you will be confined for a period."

She underscored the importance of this standard response, arguing that a judicial system cannot tolerate threats or coercion.

The former judge emphasized the urgent need for change, emphasizing that such actions must not go unpunished.

Trump's previous comments

Following the imposition of the gag order in the New York criminal case, Trump targeted the judge's daughter, who heads a marketing firm catering to Democratic politicians, branding her a "Rabid Trump Hater."

This led to contentious exchanges between the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and Trump's defense team regarding the order's scope.

The gag order, issued on March 26, prohibits Trump from discussing witnesses, legal representatives, court personnel, or other family members of prosecutors or attorneys. Trump is still permitted to comment on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. The timeline for Judge Merchan's response remains uncertain.

Trump later commented on the post of the judge's daughter, stating, “So, let me get this straight, the Judge’s daughter is allowed to post pictures of her ‘dream’ of putting me in jail ... but I am not allowed to talk about the attacks against me, and the Lunatics trying to destroy my life and prevent me from winning the 2024 Presidential Election, which I am dominating?”

Earlier gag orders

Trump has been subject to gag orders in other legal proceedings, including the federal election interference case in Washington, D.C., and the New York civil fraud case overseen by Judge Arthur Engoron, where Trump was initially instructed to pay $355 million plus interest.

Cordell commended the judges for their measured responses, which included warnings, fines, and subsequently, gag orders.

While acknowledging concerns over perceived double standards, Cordell noted that judges are increasingly recognizing the potential risks posed to their lives and families due to threats of violence and intimidation. Consequently, they have no choice but to take further action.

Cordell concluded by advocating for Trump's imprisonment, asserting that immediate consequences are essential to uphold courtroom decorum and norms.