The trial involving hush money payments and the theft of funds from the Trump Organization has seen both the prosecution and defense resting their cases, with Donald Trump not testifying. Michael Cohen, known for his past lies, admitted to stealing from the Trump Organization and pocketing the money due to a cut in his bonus. The prosecution failed to fully address this issue, focusing instead on other lies that Cohen had previously admitted to. The trial also revealed that Cohen had kept $30,000 from a payment meant to discredit unfavorable polls during the Trump campaign.
Cohen also corroborated the claim that Trump wanted to silence Stormy Daniels because of the election. Despite previous statements insisting that he would not have paid the hush money without Trump’s approval, Cohen’s admission of stealing from the Trump Organization was seen as a turning point in the trial. The defense’s main witness, Robert Costello, testified that Cohen repeatedly claimed to not have any information on Donald Trump that could lead to resolution of his legal problems. Costello also mentioned that Cohen told him Trump did not know about the hush money payments.
During Costello’s testimony, he displayed disrespect toward the judge, leading to a stern lecture and temporary clearing of the courtroom. Costello acknowledged that he was referring to Trump when mentioning having friends in high places and working to align statements against Rudy Giuliani. However, he denied allegations of pressuring Cohen to cooperate with the prosecution. The closing arguments in the trial are set for the following Tuesday, with Cohen’s credibility and testimony being pivotal to tying Trump directly to the hush money payments.
The trial has seen a focus on Cohen’s admission of stealing funds from the Trump Organization, as well as his claims regarding the hush money payments and Trump’s involvement. With the defense and prosecution resting their cases, the jury will need to consider Cohen’s credibility and its impact on Trump’s involvement in the payments. Costello’s testimony also shed light on Cohen’s interactions and discussions regarding Trump, adding complexity to the case. The upcoming closing arguments will provide both sides with an opportunity to make their final case before the jury deliberates. Ultimately, the trial hinges on Cohen’s testimony and the evidence presented to determine Trump’s potential involvement in the hush money payments.
