Live Updates: Forensic Analyst Testifies in Hush Money Case During Trump Trial

Donald Trump and Michael Cohen are back in the spotlight as the hush money trial continues in Manhattan Criminal Court. Witness testimony is set to resume, with Mr. Trump’s attorneys cross-examining a forensic analyst who extracted files from Cohen’s phones, including a damning audio recording of a conversation between Cohen and Trump discussing a payment to ex-Playboy model Karen McDougal.

Cohen is expected to take the stand soon, and Judge Juan Merchan may rule on alleged violations of Trump’s gag order. Earlier this week, Merchan fined Trump $9,000 and warned of potential “incarceratory punishment” if he continues to badmouth key participants.

Trump’s attorneys argue that their client was responding to political attacks from Cohen and President Joe Biden. Meanwhile, Keith Davidson, the former lawyer for Stormy Daniels and McDougal, wrapped up his testimony.

The trial has attracted attention worldwide, with Trump backtracking on false claims about the gag order and Cohen’s vulgar nickname for Trump entering court records and trending globally. Hope Hicks, Trump’s former aide, is tipped to be the next witness, adding another layer of intrigue to the high-profile trial.

Follow our live coverage of the trial at Manhattan Criminal Court for the latest updates on this gripping legal drama. Stay tuned for more developments as this case unfolds.