Trump lawyers attack Cohen’s credibility in criminal trial

However, prosecutors have remained focused on presenting evidence, including financial records and witness testimony…reports Asian Lite News

In the first criminal trial involving a former US president, Donald Trump’s attorney launched a vigorous cross-examination of key witness Michael Cohen on Thursday, media reported.

The trial revolves around allegations that Trump falsified business records to reimburse Cohen for a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, a porn star, to silence her claims of an affair before the 2016 election.

According to AFP report, Trump’s defence team sought to undermine Cohen’s credibility, portraying him as a disgruntled ex-employee with a penchant for lying.

Attorney Todd Blanche emphasized Cohen’s history of deception, highlighting instances where he admitted to lying, including under oath. Clips from Cohen’s podcast were played, in which he expressed a desire to see Trump fail.

Despite attempts to unsettle Cohen, who has a reputation for a fiery temper, he remained composed. Blanche’s questioning focused on catching Cohen in lies, but Cohen stood firm, denying accusations of dishonesty.

The trial has political undertones, with Trump’s allies labelling it as politicized. Trump himself has complained about its impact on his re-election campaign, even bringing prominent Republicans to the courtroom.

However, prosecutors have remained focused on presenting evidence, including financial records and witness testimony, according to AFP report.

Cohen, the prosecution’s key witness, has aligned his story with that of Stormy Daniels and David Pecker, a tabloid boss, implicating Trump in the scheme to suppress negative coverage during the 2016 election.

As the trial progresses, the defence’s strategy regarding Trump’s potential testimony remains unclear. Legal analysts speculate about the risks of Trump taking the stand, given his tendency to be unpredictable.

ALSO READ: US House Passes Bill to Resume Arms Deliveries to Israel