Michael Cohen, Trump’s Longtime Personal Lawyer, Tentatively Reaches Plea Deal

ABC News is reporting that Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former personal attorney, has entered into a plea agreement with federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York. This would bring an end to a months-long investigation that has riled the president, reports CNN. 

The details of the plea are still being negotiated and are not set in stone. Cohen is being investigated for potential bank fraud, tax fraud and campaign finance violations. If these plea deal talks fall apart, federal prosecutors are expected to indict Cohen.

NEW: @ABC has learned that Michael Cohen has entered into a plea agreement with federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York.

— Katherine Faulders (@KFaulders) August 21, 2018

BREAKING: AP sources: President Trump’s ex-personal attorney Michael Cohen discussing possible plea deal with federal prosecutors.

— The Associated Press (@AP) August 21, 2018

Confirming parts of NBC’s reporting, CNN reports that Michael Cohen is in talks to plead guilty to criminal charges. https://t.co/XmwsnsHir2

— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) August 21, 2018

CNN reports that as part of the plea deal under discussion, Cohen is not expected to cooperate with the government, one source said. But by pleading guilty, both Cohen and prosecutors would avoid the uncertainty and spectacle of a trial. A deal could be a significant blow to Trump. Cohen was part of the president’s trusted circle for more than a decade, and continued to advise him after the election.