The prosecution in the trial against former President Donald Trump has rested its case following a dramatic day of testimony from his ex-lawyer Michael Cohen. The proceedings saw a heated exchange between the judge and a defense witness, prompting a temporary closure of the courtroom. Judge Juan Merchan criticized defense attorney Robert Costello for disrespectful behavior, warning him of contempt if such conduct persisted. Despite Trump’s initial indication of willingness to testify, it now seems unlikely he will take the stand as the defense prepares to rest its case.
Cohen’s testimony featured admissions of deceiving Trump and his company out of money while maintaining that Trump approved the hush money payment to Stormy Daniels. Cohen’s cross-examination also delved into his past legal work for Trump and his earnings, highlighting his admission of lying to protect Trump in previous instances. Meanwhile, the defense argued that prosecutors failed to meet their burden of proof, citing concerns over Cohen’s credibility. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office presented its case with testimony from 20 witnesses over 15 days, with Cohen being a pivotal witness linking Trump to the alleged scheme.
The trial’s closing arguments, originally scheduled for the following week, have been postponed due to the holiday weekend. Trump, visibly upbeat in court, faces 34 counts of falsifying business records related to the Daniels payment. Prosecutors contend that Trump authorized payments falsely recorded as legal expenses to conceal their true purpose. Despite the trial’s intense proceedings, Trump’s fate remains uncertain as the legal battle continues.
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