Former President Trump has denounced the trial against him as a politically motivated prosecution, while the key witness, Michael Cohen, has admitted to stealing from the Trump Organization.
Former President Donald Trump has vehemently rejected the charges against him in the ongoing trial in Manhattan, claiming it is a "witch hunt" and a "show trial." Trump maintains that the case is politically motivated and lacks a legal basis.
Judge Juan Merchan, presiding over the trial, has deferred a decision on dismissing the charges against Trump, despite the defense's motion to do so. The prosecution's case rests heavily on the testimony of Michael Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney.
Cohen, under cross-examination, has admitted to stealing $60,000 from the Trump Organization by pocketing reimbursements and inflating his fees. The prosecution, aware of these acts, did not charge Cohen but instead relied on him as their primary witness.
Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass acknowledged Cohen's admission but dismissed it as irrelevant to the charges against Trump. The defense, led by Ronald Fischetti, has argued that Cohen's history of dishonesty and theft undermines his credibility as a witness.
Despite Cohen's admissions and past convictions, the prosecution has continued to present him as a credible witness. They have argued that his testimony is corroborated by other evidence and that his motive to lie against Trump is minimal.
The defense has countered by highlighting inconsistencies in Cohen's testimony and his history of extorting money from clients. They have also raised questions about the lack of independent evidence to support Cohen's claims.
The defense has suggested that the prosecution is politically motivated, with District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Judge Merchan harboring personal animus towards Trump. The defense has pointed to Bragg's support of Trump's opponent, Joe Biden, and Merchan's alleged bias against Trump.
The prosecution has denied these allegations, stating that the case is based solely on the evidence and the law. However, the defense's arguments have raised questions about the objectivity of the trial.
Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York and Bragg's predecessor, Cyrus Vance Jr., declined to charge Trump with the same offenses. The defense has argued that the decision not to prosecute was based on the lack of sufficient evidence.
The prosecution has countered that the decision was made on prosecutorial discretion, not a lack of evidence. They have also emphasized that the current trial is focused on state laws, which are different from federal laws.
Judge Merchan has faced criticism from the defense for his handling of the trial, including his dismissal of their motion to dismiss and his admonishment of a witness for allegedly staring at him. The defense has accused Merchan of bias against Trump.
The prosecution has defended Merchan's conduct, arguing that he has been fair and impartial. However, Merchan's actions have raised concerns about his ability to preside over the trial objectively.
The jury has now heard all the evidence and closing arguments. They will soon begin deliberations to determine whether Trump is guilty or not guilty of the charges against him. The outcome of the trial will likely have significant political implications, as Trump's reputation and potential future political aspirations hang in the balance.
