The defense has concluded its case in the criminal hush money trial of former President Donald Trump, setting the stage for a crucial phase as the trial nears its conclusion. The trial, which has spanned five weeks, is now entering a pivotal moment as prosecutors and Trump's defense attorneys prepare to discuss jury charging instructions with Judge Juan Marchand in a Manhattan courtroom.
These instructions will be instrumental in guiding the jury as they deliberate and ultimately reach a verdict on the 34 counts of falsifying business records that Trump faces in relation to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. Trump has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has consistently denied any affair with Daniels.
Earlier today, the defense wrapped up its case with the testimony of attorney Robert Costello, who spent over an hour on the stand. Costello discussed his connections with former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and his involvement in representing Michael Cohen, the prosecution's key witness, in 2018. Notably, Trump did not testify in his own defense during the trial.
Following the conclusion of witness testimony, the jury has been dismissed for the week, with closing arguments expected to commence on Tuesday. The trial has garnered significant attention due to its high-profile nature and the implications it holds for the former president.
