Michael Avenatti convicted of trying to extort Nike
02/14/2020 1:06 pm PST
via WPIX:
NEW YORK CITY (WPIX) -- Michael Avenatti, who gained fame by representing adult-film actress Stormy Daniels in lawsuits against President Donald Trump, has been convicted of trying to extort sportswear giant Nike.
The verdict against Avenatti was returned by a federal jury in Manhattan on Friday, two days after jury deliberations began, following a three-week trial.
Prosecutors claimed Avenatti made threats to use his media access to hurt Nike's reputation and stock price unless the apparel company paid him up to $25 million.
Avenatti did not testify. His lawyers argued that he was doing an honest and legal negotiation.
Avenatti is scheduled to be sentenced June 17. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on each of the top counts, the Washington Post reports.
MORE: Michael Avenatti has been convicted of trying to extort Nike - WPIX
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