Silencing pay-offs - Trump Refuses to Testify as a Witness
In a historical first, a former US president, Donald Trump, faces charges in a criminal trial for allegedly utilizing falsified business documents to hide a payment made to ex-porn actress Stormy Daniels. The purpose of the payment had been to silence Daniels, who claimed she had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006. Trump has denied any such engagements.
This ongoing legal battle comes as Trump intends to challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming November election, as he seeks a return to the White House. The former president maintains that the court proceedings are orchestrated to hinder his political ambitions.
Trouble ensued in the courtroom on Monday, when Robert Costello, a defense witness, persisted in interrupting the judge's order of typical court protocols. Costello had been attempting to distort the trustworthiness of the prosecution's key witness, Michael Cohen (57). While doing so, he gave answers to questions where the prosecutor had previously objected, despite Judge Merchan's instructions that he must not.
As Costello continued his defiance, the judge uttered, "Jeesh," in response to the prosecution's frequent objections. Caught in his disdainful behavior, Merchan summoned the jurors out of the courtroom. There, he addressed Costello, asserting the need for conduct appropriate in a courtroom. Costello continued to display his dislike for the judge when he glared at him, and Merchan became visibly angry.
Ultimately, Merchan evacuated the courtroom, aiding his staff in clearing the space. Quickly, press and onlookers were allowed to re-enter, signaling the resumption of the proceedings.
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Source: symclub.org
