Trump denounces raids on his personal lawyer Michael Cohen's office
US President Donald Trump on Monday slammed the FBI raids on his long-time personal lawyer Michael Cohen. Earlier, federal agents raided several locations in New York related to Cohen, acting on information from Special Counsel in the Russia investigation Robert Mueller's office. They were reportedly seeking evidence related to the $130,000 payment Cohen made to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential elections.
Who is Michael Cohen?
Cohen, a long-time lawyer and fixer, joined the Trump organization in 2006. In the 10 years that he was by Trump's side, he has often taken the rap for his actions. Daniels claimed that she had a sexual encounter with Trump and was later paid hush money through Cohen. Trump has denied the affair and said he doesn't know why Cohen made the payment.
How was the raid conducted?
Prosecutors reportedly obtained the search warrant after a referral from Mueller, who is investigating collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. FBI seized business records, emails and documents related to several issues, including a payment to "a pornographic film actress," and "privileged communications" from Cohen's clients. Reportedly, the big-shot lawyer is also being investigated for crimes related to bank fraud and campaign finance violations.
How did President Trump react?
At a White House event, Trump called the raid on his long-time personal attorney as "disgraceful." He said it was "a total witch hunt" and "an attack on our country in a true sense." He also blasted Mueller for what he described as lack of focus on former presidential opponent Hillary Clinton. Cohen's attorney Stephen Ryan called this raid "completely inappropriate and unnecessary."
