The hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump is nearing its conclusion in Manhattan Supreme Court, New York City. On Monday, April 20, 2024, the prosecution rested its case after key testimony from Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer and “fixer.” The defense presented its case to discredit Cohen and challenge the prosecution’s narrative.
Michael Cohen, who has been at the center of the prosecution’s case, testified for four days. On the stand, Cohen admitted to “stealing” $60,000 from the Trump Organization in 2016. He explained that this was due to a reduction in his annual bonus, describing it as “self-help.” Cohen also detailed his involvement in making a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election, allegedly at Trump’s direction.
During his testimony, Cohen said, “My entire life has been turned upside down as a direct result. I lost my law licenses, my business, my financial security.” Cohen’s statement highlighted the personal toll the trial has taken on him, adding a human touch to the proceedings.
The defense, led by attorney Todd Blanche, sought to undermine Cohen’s credibility. Blanche argued that there was no evidence of falsified business records or an intent to defraud. “There’s no evidence that there’s any idea or any intent to mislead or to hide or to falsify the business records,” Blanche stated.
Michael Cohen’s testimony has been crucial for the prosecution, which has charged Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. These charges stem from allegations that Trump misrepresented payments to Cohen as routine legal expenses rather than reimbursements for the hush money payment to Daniels.
Cohen’s cross-examination by the defense highlighted his past criminal behavior, including lying to Congress and financial crimes. Cohen admitted that he has made over $4 million from books and podcasts since 2020, which the defense used to question his motives and credibility.
The defense called Robert Costello, Cohen’s former attorney, to testify. Costello’s testimony was marked by tension, as he claimed Cohen had told him multiple times that Trump knew nothing about the payment to Daniels. However, Costello’s demeanor in court led to clashes with the judge, Juan Merchan, who admonished him for his conduct.
“Are you staring me down right now?” Judge Merchan asked Costello during a heated moment. The judge briefly cleared the courtroom to reprimand Costello, warning him to maintain proper decorum.
Robert Costello’s testimony aimed to contradict Cohen’s claims, asserting that Cohen had acted independently in making the payment to Daniels. Costello described Cohen as “a maniac” during their initial meetings and claimed Cohen had repeatedly stated that Trump was unaware of the hush money arrangement.
Trump has been very vocal about the trial, often speaking to reporters after court sessions. On Monday, Trump attacked Judge Merchan, referring to him as a “tyrant” and expressing hope that the case would be dismissed. “You saw what we saw. That was an incredible display … a tyrant,” Trump said. He also quoted Oliver Stone, saying the trial was an example of “lawfare.”
Despite Trump’s public comments, the trial is moving toward its conclusion. The defense is expected to rest its case on Tuesday May 21, and closing arguments are anticipated to begin after the Memorial Day weekend. The judge indicated that jury deliberations could start next week.
The trial has captivated public attention, with frequent updates and analysis from various media outlets. Trump, who is also the presumptive GOP nominee for the 2024 presidential election, has used the trial as a platform to rally his supporters and criticize his opponents.
Outside the courtroom, the trial continued to draw attention from both Trump supporters and critics. Demonstrations were held outside the courthouse, with anti-Trump protesters at one point drowning out Trump’s supporters. Former New York City Police Commissioner Bernie Kerik, a longtime Trump ally, was spotted outside the courthouse showing his support for the former president.