Trump's Legal Woes Deepen: Hush Money Trial Tensions and Classified Docs Found at Mar-a-Lago
May 22, 2024Former President Trump's defense team concluded their case in the hush money trial.
Trump chose not to testify due to a gag order, escalating tensions in the trial over falsified business records related to a payment to Stormy Daniels.
Criticism and accusations of cowardice emerged following Trump's absence on the stand as the jury deliberates on his political future.
In a separate legal issue, FBI found additional classified records in Trump's bedroom during a search at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Judge Beryl Howell expressed disbelief over Trump's handling of the classified documents, highlighting his role in concealing information and obstructing justice.
The Department of Justice accused Trump of ordering footage to be deleted and misleading the government about returning records.
Judge Aileen Cannon delayed the trial indefinitely to further consider motions.
A Trump adviser related to his Save America PAC admitted to scanning classified materials in 2021, further damaging Trump's reputation amidst ongoing legal and political battles.
Summary based on 55 sources
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Sources
BBC News • May 21, 2024
Trump trial: Former president doesn't testify as defence restsThe Guardian • May 21, 2024
Trump’s criminal trial wraps up testimonyThe Guardian • May 21, 2024
‘Mr Trump, why won’t you testify?’: hush-money trial nears end with a fizzle, not a bangYahoo News • May 21, 2024
Trump declines witness stand as testimony in his first trial concludes