Closing argument in the case of former oral surgeon Michael Hasson

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – A high-profile trial in New Hanover County is one step closer to ending.

Closing arguments took place on Tuesday in the trial of former oral surgeon Michael Hasson.

Hasson is accused of sexually abusing over 20 patients while they were sedated.

Both the prosecution and defense gave lengthy closing arguments, each lasting over two hours, in front of a packed courtroom.

The prosecution made its closing arguments first, as prosecutor Connie Jordan asked jurors to reflect on the “brave and disturbing accounts of those who trusted Hasson” and how Hasson “violated their trust.”

Jordan summarized the evidence presented to the jury during the trial in a digital presentation, including emotional interviews and testimony from 19 former patients.

After an hour and a half break, the defense made its closing arguments.

Defense attorney Tripp Watson urged jurors to base their decision on facts rather than emotions.

He showed a video of what a patient would look like during oral surgery at Hasson’s office.

He also asked jurors to consider how “drugs affect the mind” and said Hasson sedated his patients for a reason, as they had all undergone oral surgery at the time.

He concluded by saying his client was innocent.

The trial is now in the hands of the jury as deliberations are set to begin on Wednesday morning.

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.