Story perspectives

Cohen Denies Epstein Links; Judge Blocks Grand Jury Materials

8/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Michael Cohen denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell, stating he has never met them. He acknowledged working on one Epstein-related case for Trump but denied wrongdoing.
Katie Johnson, who accused Trump of rape in 1994, withdrew her lawsuit before the 2016 election due to threats.
A federal judge rejected the unsealing of grand jury materials related to Maxwell, calling the government's transparency claims misleading.

History

Historical Context

In 1994, the U.S. witnessed the emergence of high-profile sexual assault allegations, notably against public figures like Bill Clinton. Katie Johnson's withdrawal of her lawsuit against Donald Trump highlighted the intimidation faced by accusers, with threats influencing legal actions. Cohen's denial of ties to Epstein and Maxwell reflects ongoing scrutiny of powerful individuals in sexual misconduct cases. The rejection of unsealing grand jury materials by a federal judge underscores persistent challenges in achieving transparency in such sensitive legal matters.

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Story summary

Michael Cohen denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell, stating he has never met them. He acknowledged working on one Epstein-related case for Trump but denied wrongdoing.
Katie Johnson, who accused Trump of rape in 1994, withdrew her lawsuit before the 2016 election due to threats.
A federal judge rejected the unsealing of grand jury materials related to Maxwell, calling the government's transparency claims misleading.

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