EdmundFordTrial's Blog

**note: sorry for the delayed post - technical difficulties.**

Prosecution questions Cooper's relationship with Ford. Cooper says he helped Ford get a space for Ford's business. Churchwell gave Ford good terms, less than $3K per month. The building needed to be renovated, Cooper says Jackie Welsh loaned Ford $40K to renovate, but Ford got behind on paying back the loan every month. Ford then wanted to lease a Cadillac from Cooper, but his credit did not qualify him for the loan. Cooper approached Rusty Hyneman about co-signing loan for Ford. Hyneman agreed, but Ford got behind on car payment a few months later (monthly payments were $927 per month). Ford's attorney maintains that Hyneman's signature was forged.

Prosecutors asked Cooper what he did, he said he was a consultant for Hyneman & other individuals, and that he handled zoning issues and worked out hang-ups. Cooper says when he consulted on a project Ford always voted in Cooper's favor. After Cooper was arrested for money laundering the FBI asked him for information… that's when he gave them information on Ford. Cooper was working on the Steve Road project & several others for William Thomas. FBI thought they could use these projects to set up a sting for Ford. Cooper agreed to wear a wire & recording device.

Prosecution stated they will continue their line of questioning when court resumed Wednesday morning. Court was then adjourned.