Legal Debate Intensifies Over Cohen’s Testimony Regarding ‘Bulletproof’ Agreement
Emil Bove, the attorney for President Trump, seeks to introduce testimony from Michael Cohen that David Pecker, the ex-publisher of the National Enquirer, termed their agreement as “bulletproof.” Bove argues that this reflects Trump’s awareness and intent to deceive. However, prosecutor Matthew Colangelo dismisses this as a rehashed argument, noting that the judge has previously ruled against similar defenses citing the involvement of legal counsel.
Judge Juan Merchan sides with Colangelo. He rejects the recurring argument and points out his unfamiliarity with the terms “presence of counsel” and its modified version, “involvement of counsel.” Merchan urges Bove to cease presenting this defense and criticizes his persistence.
When discussing Pecker’s testimony, Colangelo emphasizes that it does not establish that a lawyer meticulously reviewed the agreement with Karen McDougal. Pecker’s testimony indicated that the lawyer did not have a complete understanding of the situation.
Judge Merchan unequivocally states that the jury will not hear this argument from the bench, nor is Bove allowed to introduce it. Bove responds with, “I understand. I just want to complete the record.”
Before proceeding, Merchan reiterates that Bove has persistently attempted to make this argument for several months. He firmly rejects it and instructs Bove not to revisit the matter. In reaction, Trump muttered something, shook his head, and looked down.
