Michael Cohen Testifies Against Former Boss Donald Trump in Hush Money Case

Michael Cohen Testifies Against Former Boss Donald Trump in Hush Money Case

Former Trump “fixer” and lawyer, Michael Cohen, testified in a Manhattan court on Tuesday, revealing the moment he decided to turn on his longtime boss, Donald Trump. Cohen, who had served as Trump’s lawyer for about a decade, told jurors in the hush money case against the former president that a conversation with his family around the time he pleaded guilty to federal charges in 2018 changed his mind about staying loyal.

Cohen admitted to tax evasion, campaign finance violations, and making false statements to a bank in connection to the $130,000 payment he made to porn star Stormy Daniels allegedly on Trump’s behalf. He also pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about seeking financing and approvals from the Russian government for a Trump development project in Moscow. Cohen expressed regret for his actions, stating that he had lied and bullied people to protect Trump, which violated his moral compass and had consequences for him and his family.

Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger questioned Cohen extensively about his lies, likely anticipating Trump’s lawyers’ efforts to challenge his credibility during cross-examination. Cohen admitted to lying to Congress and the Federal Election Commission to cover up Trump’s alleged involvement in the Russia development efforts and the hush money payments made to Daniels and Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal.

Cohen also described the emotional toll of the federal raid on his home, law offices, and a safety deposit box, which turned his life upside down. He recalled Trump calling him after the raid, assuring him that he would be okay and urging him to stay loyal. Cohen alleged that Trump pressured him not to turn on him and not to cooperate with the authorities.

After approximately eight hours of direct testimony, prosecutors concluded their questioning of Cohen before the lunch break. Cohen, considered the prosecution’s star witness, had previously testified against Trump in a civil fraud trial, resulting in a $454 million judgment against the former president for exaggerating his assets.

CrimeDoor
Author: CrimeDoor

Leave a Reply

Share on:

[mailpoet_form id="1"]

Subscribe to Our Newsletter