Judge Mehta intervened, deeming Rowley’s question about previous jury breaks irrelevant. He explained that supervised breaks outdoors are customary for jurors at the D.C. courthouse, especially during extended deliberations.
Peter Navarro Contempt Trial : Legal Battle Intensifies
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Aloi staunchly opposed any motion for a new trial. Aloi argued that Navarro’s legal team should have raised concerns about the break before the verdict was delivered on September 7, allowing the court to investigate potential juror influence by the protesters. Waiting until after the verdict and the dismissal of the jury was, in her view, prejudicial to the government.
In response, Judge Mehta announced that the court would provide prosecutors and Navarro’s defense team with footage from specific court security cameras as they prepare to address this perplexing issue.
Throughout the intense half-hour hearing, Peter Navarro displayed visible agitation, often shaking his head following whispered discussions with his attorneys.
Navarro’s Contempt Conviction
Peter Navarro, known for spearheading former President Donald Trump’s robust trade policies and response to the COVID-19 pandemic, found himself convicted on September 7. The conviction stems from two counts of contempt of Congress related to his refusal to comply with a congressional subpoena issued by the U.S. House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.