Hush Money trial: Concluded, no testimony

Defense lawyers for Donald Trump concluded their case at his criminal hush money trial without having the former president testify. After questioning their second witness, criminal defense lawyer Robert Costello, they rested.

On Monday, Judge Juan Merchan criticized Costello for his "contemptuous" behavior on the stand. Costello's testimony involved his interactions with former Trump fixer Michael Cohen following an FBI raid on Cohen's office and home related to his hush money payment to Stormy Daniels.

The decision for Trump not to testify was anticipated, given the risks associated with his potential off-the-cuff remarks that might contradict previous statements.

Key takeaways:

- Trump's defense team concluded their case without calling him to testify.

- The final witness questioned by Trump's lawyers was criminal defense lawyer Robert Costello.

- Judge Juan Merchan criticized Costello for his "contemptuous" behavior on the stand.

- Costello's testimony involved his interactions with Michael Cohen after the FBI raided Cohen's office and home.

- The decision for Trump not to testify was expected due to the risks of potentially contradicting his previous statements.

Refrence: New York Times, CNN , NBC