Donald Trump's hush-money trial reached a critical juncture as the prosecution rested its case following the testimony of Michael Cohen. The defense team, citing insufficient evidence, has requested the judge to dismiss the case.
According to Market Watch, the prosecution wrapped up its case with Michael Cohen's testimony, which lasted nearly four days. Cohen implicated Trump as the central figure in a scheme to suppress negative stories to protect his presidential campaign. He alleged that Trump promised to reimburse him for payments made to silence allegations of sexual encounters.
The defense cross-examined Cohen about his business dealings and sources of income since Trump's presidency began. Cohen's credibility was scrutinized as the defense sought to undermine his claims. Despite the intensive questioning, Cohen maintained that Trump directed him to make the payments and promised reimbursement.
Trump has consistently denied the allegations made by the women involved. Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, argued that there was no evidence of falsified business records or an intent to defraud. He emphasized that Cohen was providing legitimate legal services while being repaid.
Defense witnesses included attorney Robert Costello and paralegal Daniel Sitko. Costello, who briefly and contentiously represented Cohen, was criticized by the judge for his courtroom demeanor. The defense team has requested Judge Juan M. Merchan dismiss the case due to what they claim is a lack of evidence.
Todd Blanche asserted, “There’s absolutely no evidence that the filings were false. The business records were not false. There’s no disputing that Mr. Cohen provided legal services for President Trump in 2017.”
The trial, now on its 19th day, marks the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president. Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This case is one of four ongoing prosecutions against the former president.
Closing arguments are scheduled to occur after Memorial Day. Trump’s defense team has stated they have no further witnesses to call "at this point." It remains uncertain if Trump will decide to testify, although he has expressed a desire to do so.
Trump's entourage at the courthouse included notable figures such as Bernie Kerik and Chuck Zito. The presence of these individuals underscored the high-profile nature of the trial. The defense continues to argue that the prosecution has failed to prove their case.
Todd Blanche reiterated, “There’s no evidence of falsified business records or an intent to defraud.” He also argued that Trump was far removed from the Trump Organization offices where Cohen's invoices and checks were processed while in the White House.
As the trial progresses, all eyes are on Judge Merchan's pending decision on the defense's request for dismissal. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Trump's legal battles and political future.
Conclusion
The hush-money trial of Donald Trump has reached its concluding phase, marked by the testimony of Michael Cohen and the prosecution resting its case.
The defense has requested the judge to dismiss the case due to insufficient evidence. Trump’s legal team has argued that there is no proof of falsified records or intent to defraud. The trial, notable for being the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, continues to draw significant public attention. Closing arguments are set to occur after Memorial Day, with the judge's decision pending on the defense's dismissal request.
