Last in the case of hush payments. - All outcomes depend on Trump today!
This afternoon, in German time, the prosecution and defense will present their closing arguments in the high-profile hush money case against former U.S. President Donald Trump (77) in America. This is their final chance to influence the twelve jurors' decision on Trump's guilt or innocence.
Trump's chances of acquittal:
According to the indictment, it appears that Trump's lawyer, Michael Cohen (57), paid porn star Stormy Daniels (45) $130,000 in hush money, and Trump reimbursed him with 12 checks totaling $420,000, which Cohen claimed were for "legal fees."
The indictment charges Trump with a "fraud of business records." However, this would only be a crime if the jury agrees that other laws were also broken. For example, that the 2016 election was influenced by these hush deals.
Michael Cohen, a key witness, is crucial in determining Trump's guilt or innocence. There were two pivotal moments: when he testified that Trump wanted to suppress sex scandal stories out of fear of losing the election, the jurors seemed captivated. Similarly, when Trump's defense attorney accused Cohen of lying and even stealing.
The jury's decision is the only factor that matters. They are expected to begin deliberations on Wednesday, and the length of time is uncertain. Typically, jurors take a few hours to a few days to render their verdict. If guilty, Judge Juan Merchan will determine the sentence at a separate hearing.
If the jurors fail to reach a unanimous decision even after prolonged deliberation, the process ends. The prosecution could then opt for a new jury.
Trump's behavior during the trial:
Trump is not known for his quiet demeanor or silence. So, the trial felt like a "martyrdom" to him. Trump broke the court's gag order ten times, resulting in a $10,000 fine. It wasn't until threats of coercive detainment by Judge Juan Merchan (61) that Trump stopped his attacks on the jury and witnesses.
During the trial, Trump frequently switched body language: defiant in court photos, sulky (arms crossed), attentive (listening to witnesses, reading files), drowsy (brief naps), or indifferent (eyes deliberately closed).
The consequences of a guilty verdict:
Trump is charged with 34 Class E crimes in New York, the lowest level. The maximum sentence is four years in prison (probation is also an option). Judge Merchan will determine the sentence at a later time.
It's highly improbable that Trump will be incarcerated before the presidential elections. As reported by the "New York Times," he's "likely at least until the completion of the anticipated appeals process" on bail.
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Source: symclub.org
