Former President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer, Michael D. Cohen, delivered crucial testimony linking Trump to falsified documents involving hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels in the ongoing criminal trial. Cohen’s revelations highlight the intricate web of deceit surrounding the case and its potential impact on Trump’s legal challenges.
Trump’s Hush-Money Trial Update: Key Testimony Highlights Cohen’s Role
Manhattan, May 14, 2024 – Michael D. Cohen, former President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer, delivered pivotal testimony in Trump’s criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records. Cohen’s statements directly linked the former president to falsified documents involving hush-money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels.
Cohen testified that a deal was made in the Oval Office weeks into Trump’s presidency, where Cohen began receiving monthly checks, mostly signed by Trump, described as part of a legal retainer agreement but were actually reimbursements for the hush-money payments. These checks and related records are central to the 34 felony counts Trump faces.
The defense, led by attorney Todd Blanche, attempted to discredit Cohen by highlighting his media appearances and financial motives. Despite intense questioning, Cohen remained composed, reinforcing his claims about the fraudulent nature of the transactions and his decision to stop protecting Trump.
Trump has denied falsifying records or having an affair with Daniels. The trial, without any current indication that Trump himself will testify, makes Cohen’s account crucial for the prosecution’s case. Notably, Cohen revealed that despite his loyalty, Trump and his associates abandoned him during a federal investigation in 2018, which led to Cohen’s prison sentence.
Additional Context: The case is unprecedented, marking the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, and it underscores significant tensions within Trump’s inner circle and political ramifications for his ongoing legal battles.
