The first criminal trial of former President Donald Trump concluded its testimony phase on May 21, 2024, in Manhattan. Trump, accused of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 hush-money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election, faces 34 felony counts. Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, testified that Trump directed the payment and approved its reimbursement disguised as legal fees. Cohen, the prosecution's star witness, was cross-examined extensively and characterized by the defense as untrustworthy.
The defense rested without calling Trump to the stand. Their primary witness, Robert Costello, a former advisor to Cohen, aimed to discredit Cohen but faced a contentious cross-examination from the prosecution. Closing arguments are scheduled for May 28, following which the jury will receive instructions and begin deliberations.