**Manhattan Prosecutors Oppose Trump's Effort to Dismiss Conviction Amid Presidency**

Manhattan prosecutors have effectively rejected President-elect Donald J. Trump's recent push to have his criminal conviction dismissed following his electoral victory. Instead, they are considering an alternative proposal: to freeze the case while he serves as president.

President-elect Trump, convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records, was scheduled to face sentencing this month. However, the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, has signalled his intent to oppose outright dismissal of the case, preferring a potential freeze during Trump's presidency.

In a letter to Judge Juan M. Merchan, who is overseeing the case, the district attorney's office stressed the gravity of the situation. They highlighted that a jury had already determined Trump was guilty of falsifying records to conceal a sex scandal, but also noted the uncommon nature of a convicted felon serving as president. The unprecedented circumstances have led the prosecutors to propose a four-year suspension of the case.

Judge Merchan's forthcoming decision could either result in freezing the case or dismissing it altogether, setting a significant precedent. Should the case be dismissed, it would considerably bolster Trump's position as he enters his second term, potentially creating an impression of invulnerability.

In their communication, prosecutors underscored the need to balance presidential responsibilities with judicial integrity. "The people deeply respect the office of the president, are mindful of the demands and obligations of the presidency, and acknowledge that defendant's inauguration will raise unprecedented legal questions," the prosecutors stated. "We also deeply respect the fundamental role of the jury in our constitutional system."

The judge's ruling in the coming weeks will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications, not just for Trump's legal battles but for the intersection of criminal justice and presidential duties.