Thread by @joshgerstein

HAPPENING NOW: Discussion of possible trial date for former DNC outside counsel Michael Sussmann, charged with false statement to FBI by Special Counsel Durham. Judge says he understands deft’s desire to ‘get on with his life win, lose or draw.'

But judge cooper notes congestion of DC fed court trial calendar (1/6 stuff but he didn’t mention)… “Unfortunately, I don't have the authority sitting here just to issue a trial date…We are operating under a master trial calendar….I need to get clearance."

Cooper: 'I think where this is going [for trial] is mid-late-May, early June.' Notes again that Durham prosecutors already have Danchenko trial scheduled for April 18 in EDVA.

OOOH: Sussmann lawyer Berkowitz says special counsel (Durham or Mueller?) produced a memo questioning the credibility of James Baker, the central witness for prosecution. Defense wants it. Prosecution clearing it w/a non-DOJ agency

Cooper says he expects the chief judge’s halt of speedy trial clock due to pandemic to be extended further (now expires Dec. 15) due to #COVID19 numbers in DC. Hearing ends. We expect to get a trial date in a written order.