Donald Trump's fate currently rests in the hands of 12 New York City jurors as they deliberate in a Manhattan courthouse. The jurors requested a portion of Judge Juan Marchand's instructions to be read back to them, and they also heard testimony from David Pecker and Michael Cohen about a 2015 meeting at Trump Tower where Trump allegedly discussed handling potential salacious stories.
Will Scharf, a Trump attorney present in the courtroom, noted that the jury's focus on evidentiary inferences and requests to revisit specific testimonies may indicate skepticism towards Michael Cohen's credibility. Scharf expressed optimism about the jury's diligence in considering the law and evidence, suggesting a potential acquittal.
Judge Marchand's instructions emphasized the need for corroborating evidence alongside Cohen's testimony, highlighting the jury's responsibility to assess witness credibility. The defense team views these instructions favorably, anticipating a just verdict.
Despite the legal complexities, Scharf highlighted Trump's resilience and readiness for a fair outcome. The defense team is prepared for all scenarios, including a potential appeal in the event of an unfavorable verdict.
The distinction between felony and misdemeanor charges in the business records fraud statute was discussed, with the defense team questioning the conversion of alleged misdemeanors into felonies based on underlying intentions. This legal nuance adds complexity to the case.
In conclusion, the ongoing deliberations reflect a thorough examination of the evidence and legal instructions by the jury. The defense remains hopeful for a favorable outcome as the trial progresses.
