During the ongoing trial at 100 Center Street, a significant development unfolded this morning as Robert Costello, a defense witness, faced cross-examination by the prosecution. The prosecution aimed to challenge Costello's credibility, as the defense had called him to undermine the credibility of Michael Cohen, a key figure in the trial.
Cohen had testified about feeling pressured by Costello to remain loyal to former President Donald Trump. Allegations suggested that Costello sought to establish a back channel to Trump. In response, the prosecution probed Costello's claim that he had Cohen's best interests at heart, not Trump's, following the FBI's raids on Cohen's properties.
During the cross-examination, an email from Costello to a partner was presented, where Costello mentioned the goal of aligning Cohen without appearing to take instructions from Giuliani or Trump. Costello defended his actions, stating that his intent was to assist Cohen rather than act on behalf of the former president.
Costello served as the final witness for the defense, with only a paralegal called earlier to present phone records between Costello and Cohen. The defense strategically utilized Costello to challenge aspects of Cohen's testimony, considering Cohen's pivotal role in the prosecution's case.
Notably, Donald Trump opted not to testify in the trial. The judge scheduled closing arguments for the following week, with ongoing discussions to determine the jury instructions on legal matters, a crucial yet technical aspect of the case.
