Manafort Didn’t Knowingly Commit Crimes, Defense Says in Closing Argument

A view of the U.S. District Courthouse as closing arguments are expected in former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort's trial on bank and tax fraud charges stemming from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, in Alexandria, Virginia, U.S., August 15, 2018. REUTERS/Chris Wattie

The defense counsel for Paul Manafort said in its closing argument that Manafort was transparent with financial institutions and that any issues with his financial situation were well known before bankers extended any loans to him.

The lawyers also sought to emphasize the idea that Manafort didn’t knowingly break the law–a requirement for conviction–and was rather failed by the bookkeepers, accountants and other professionals in whom he trusted his financial affairs.