Potential issues in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s case against former President Donald Trump have been highlighted by criminal defense attorney Arthur Aidala during a CNN interview on Monday. Aidala pointed out the absence of Trump’s signature on key documents related to the 34 felony counts he faces for purportedly falsifying business records linked to payments made to Stormy Daniels, a porn star, to keep silent about an alleged affair before the 2016 election.
Aidala emphasized that while Trump’s signature is present on a check, other critical documents lack his personal endorsement. He suggested this absence could raise “reasonable doubt” regarding Trump’s involvement, particularly when compared to Michael Cohen, a pivotal witness in Bragg’s case. Aidala stressed the importance of scrutinizing witnesses like Cohen, who, despite being a crucial asset for prosecutors, has a history of pleading guilty to various charges including giving false statements, tax evasion, and campaign finance violations.
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Cohen initially claimed he used his personal funds to pay Daniels and received no reimbursement from the Trump campaign or organization. However, he later testified to Congress that Trump directed him to make the payment and reimbursed him for it. Aidala underscored the significance of Cohen’s credibility in the case, noting that while there is corroborating paperwork, none of it bears Trump’s handwriting or signature except for a check. This, Aidala argued, could allow the defense to argue that Cohen acted independently without Trump’s knowledge.
Trump’s legal troubles extend beyond this case. He was indicted in June 2023 for allegedly mishandling classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago residence and faced another indictment in August 2023 for purportedly attempting to interfere in the 2020 election and his alleged involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot.
