Former President Donald Trump’s defense team wrapped up their case at his “hush money” trial, choosing not to have Trump testify despite hinting at the possibility. The defense called just two witnesses, including a legal analyst and attorney Robert Costello, who aimed to discredit the prosecution’s star witness, Michael Cohen. Costello testified that Cohen told him Trump had no knowledge of the $130,000 payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016. Cohen, who put up the money himself, claimed Trump was aware of a plan to cover up the payments reimbursing him. Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsification of business records.
Costello’s testimony comes after Cohen wrapped up his own testimony the day before, where he stated that he never trusted Costello and lied to him to protect himself. The trial is set to adjourn until next Tuesday, when both sides will present their closing arguments before the jury begins deliberations. The decision not to have Trump testify marks the beginning of the final chapter of proceedings in this high-profile trial.
The defense’s strategy of discrediting Cohen, the prosecution’s key witness, is a crucial element in Trump’s defense against the charges of falsification of business records. Costello’s testimony aimed to create doubt about Cohen’s credibility and the extent of Trump’s involvement in the hush money payments. The trial has garnered significant attention due to Trump’s status as a former president and the nature of the charges against him.
Despite not taking the stand, Trump’s defense team presented Costello’s testimony as a key piece of evidence in their case. The decision not to have Trump testify may have been a strategic choice to avoid potential risks associated with having him face cross-examination. As the trial moves into the closing arguments phase, both sides will have the opportunity to make their final case to the jury before they begin deliberations next week.
The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for Trump and his reputation, as well as potential legal consequences. The defense’s efforts to cast doubt on Cohen’s credibility and the extent of Trump’s knowledge of the hush money payments will be key factors in the jury’s decision. As the trial enters its final stages, the focus will shift to the closing arguments and the jury’s deliberations, which will ultimately determine the outcome of this high-profile case.
