New York (CNN) Jury selection in Michael Avenatti's federal extortion trial began in New York on Monday as prosecutors are set to argue he tried to shake down athletic apparel giant Nike for millions of dollars. His lawyers noted he has spent 14 days in a cell by himself since being arrested. They say he has no newspapers or TV, no social interaction besides his attorneys and limited phone calls with family. Monday's hearing focused on the beginning of jury selection as well as several pretrial motions and other issues. "I'll go take $10 billion off your client's market cap," Avenatti is quoted as threatening in a recorded telephone conversation.

Source: CNN January 27, 2020 12:31 UTC