Chapter 545: The Trial (5) – Adjournment

Inside the courtroom, Charles’s face turned livid at the mention of his name. He stared coldly at Josh, who continued with high spirits, "Guests were present at the City Hall dinner. Most were intoxicated by the end. While the video shows the victim never met the defendant before her death, this doesn’t exclude other suspects. The victim could have been kidnapped elsewhere, beyond the camera's range—a point the prosecution fails to prove. Therefore, the prosecution lacks the legal right to charge the defendant with rape or any connection to the victim's suicide."

"Mr. Josh," the prosecutor questioned, "based on your speculation, who else might be a suspect in the victim's death and the alleged rape?"

"This is a public prosecution demanding concrete proof; without it, I cannot draw conclusions about the victim’s death. Similarly, the prosecution hasn't presented sufficient evidence to convict the defendant. Therefore, they lack the right to charge him with rape," Josh insisted gravely.

Before the prosecutor could respond, Josh continued, "If you require speculation, I have reason to suspect Charles."

His statement stunned everyone, including Charles and the judge, who couldn't help glancing at Charles to observe his reaction.

Josh continued, "The prosecution claims the defendant's playboy lifestyle underpins the rape charge. Charles shares this lifestyle; his infidelity to Hannah led to their wedding's cancellation. If the defendant's guilt hinges on being a playboy, then Charles, also known as a playboy, should be a suspect. He was at the dinner; involvement is possible. Furthermore, Charles cheated on Jane, the victim's cousin, before his wedding. Following the prosecution's logic, Charles might have attempted a relationship with the victim, making him even more suspicious. He seems to have a particular interest in the Cooper women, suggesting a pattern of affairs."

"Objection! The defense attorney is resorting to sophistry and irrelevant statements to obscure the defendant's innocence. Mr. Sawyer has been proven innocent; this is a blatant smear!"

"Objection sustained! The defense attorney must use more appropriate language. Further irrelevant statements will jeopardize your right to defend your client."

Taking a deep breath, Josh respectfully explained, "Your Honor, I was merely applying the prosecution's logic to my speculation. If my speculation is deemed irrelevant, so is theirs."

This visibly embarrassed the prosecutor. The judge, mindful of public perception, couldn't display bias against the defendant. Josh's argument had clearly resonated.

The judge banged his gavel. After a pointed look from Charles, he added, "The court will adjourn for ten minutes." He then left the bench.

The courtroom buzzed with noise. Charles's face was livid.

Loretta, sitting beside him, muttered, "I didn't expect his lawyer to be so skilled."

"So what? Oscar will still be convicted if they lack conclusive evidence. The judge holds the power; his lawyer can't change that," Charles gritted his teeth.

Loretta looked relieved. "Luckily, we have the judge… taken care of."

"Of course," Charles nodded.

"As soon as he's imprisoned, I'm going to torture that little bitch!" Loretta hissed viciously, her anger flaring at the thought of Hannah's recent defiance.

"Be patient," Charles cautioned.

Loretta composed herself.

Ten minutes later, the judge returned. The prosecutor reiterated his case, concluding Oscar's guilt based on presented evidence and speculation.

When it was Josh's turn, he stated, "Your Honor, the defendant requests an adjournment due to illness."

The judge frowned.

"Your Honor…" Josh pressed.

The judge glanced at Charles, wanting a swift conviction to preclude any appeal, wondering what tricks Oscar might be planning.

Before the judge could respond, Oscar suddenly collapsed, unconscious.

Chaos erupted. Hannah rushed to his side.

"Silence! Court adjourned! Take the defendant to the hospital!" The bailiff quickly removed Oscar. The judge and the rest of the court adjourned.

Hannah watched Oscar's removal.

Susan, shocked, exclaimed, "How did he become so weak?"

Venus rushed over. "Hannah, I heard you met Oscar recently. Why is he so weak? He's always been healthy. How could he faint like that?"

Hannah finally reacted. "I don't know," she replied coldly, then walked away, ignoring Venus, leaving Susan to follow.

Loretta approached Venus, having overheard their conversation. She sneered mockingly, "All couples face difficulties that lead to separation. Wouldn't you agree, Mrs. Wells?"