The Legal Troubles of Michael Cohen
Michael Cohen: Trump's Personal Lawyer
Michael Cohen, a former attorney for President Donald Trump, found himself embroiled in serious legal issues that culminated in a significant event in 2018. Cohen was heavily involved in Trump's business dealings and served as his personal lawyer for over a decade. His knowledge of Trump's inner workings became crucial during investigations into campaign-finance violations and other illegal activities.
Cohen's Confession and Charges
In August 2018, Michael Cohen pled guilty to multiple charges including campaign-finance violations involving hush money payments made to silence allegations of Trump's extramarital affairs. These payments were deemed illegal contributions to Trump's presidential campaign, violating election laws.
The Sentencing: A Major Fallout
Cohen Sentenced to Three Years
On December 12, 2018, Michael Cohen was sentenced to three years in prison for his role in the campaign-finance violations, tax fraud, and lying to Congress. The sentencing marked a watershed moment, as it not only hurt Cohen's career but also impacted Trump's presidency significantly.
Consequences for Trump Administration
The revelations from Cohen's sentencing raised serious questions about the legality of Trump's campaign activities and his business practices. This incident intensified the scrutiny surrounding the Trump administration, leading to further investigations and discussions on accountability.
Fun Fact
Cohen's Transformation
Interestingly, Michael Cohen initially described himself as a "fixer" for Trump, but after his guilty plea, he transformed into a key witness against the president. This shift revealed the complex nature of political loyalty and legal obligation in modern American politics.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Michael Cohen
For those who wish to delve deeper into this intriguing chapter of American politics, consider reading "Disloyal: A Memoir" by Michael Cohen, which offers his perspective on the events surrounding the Trump administration and his own legal battles.