Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Names and faces
■ Michael Avenatti is unable to pay his attorney ahead of his second criminal trial in federal court in Manhattan, N.Y., and he has asked for representation by the public defender’s office. Avenatti “no longer has [the] financial ability to pay for undersigned counsel or any other attorney to represent him in this matter,” lawyer Thomas Warren wrote on his behalf in a filing to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on Friday. In a separate filing to the court earlier last week, Warren also said “a non-waivable conflict of interest has arisen” for his firm that “requires our withdrawal as counsel.” He wrote, however, that before learning of the conflict, the firm “had already intended” to ask to be relieved because it was not being paid. The details of the conflict have not been made public. U.S. District Judge Jesse Furman ordered a phone conference to discuss the matter next Friday. Furman allowed Avenatti, who in recent years has flaunted a life of luxury, to file his financial affidavit under seal. The statement is needed to verify his claim that he cannot afford a private lawyer. Avenatti’s next trial is set to start in October, though it is likely to be rescheduled. In the upcoming proceeding, he will face charges that he cheated the adultfilm actress Stormy Daniels in dealings over a book contract. Prosecutors said Avenatti paid his own debts and expenses with stolen money.
■ Lena Dunham says her body “revolted” in a debilitating monthlong struggle with covid-19. The 34year-old creator and star of “Girls” gave a detailed account Friday on Instagram of what she said she experienced after testing positive for the coronavirus in mid-March, just as much of the nation was shutting down because of the pandemic. “It started with achy joints,” Dunham wrote, “then the pain was joined by a crushing fatigue. Then a fever of 102. Suddenly my body simply revolted.” She went into isolation and felt severe symptoms for three weeks, she said. Dunham said she was treated by a doctor in her home and did not have to be hospitalized, and that she knows she is lucky to have exceptional health care and flexible work.