By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK, Reuters – A jury for Michael Avenatti in the fraud trial in America asked Friday’s judge to help them deal with one of their 12-member panel members who they claimed was refusing to consider the evidence.

Prosecutors claim that Avenatti (50) embezzled almost $300,000. in book proceeds for Stormy Daniels, a former client. Avenatti has pleaded no guilty to the charges of identity theft and wire fraud.

The jury wrote to U.S. district Judge Jesse Furman that “one juror is refusing evidence to be looked at and is acting from a feeling.” “She doesn’t think she must prove her side with evidence. She refuses to explain how she came to that conclusion to us…please help me move forward.”

The jury in question wasn’t clear if he was inclined to convict or acquit Avenatti.

On Wednesday, the jury started deliberating in Manhattan Federal Court. It was unable to come up with a consensus on Thursday.

Avenatti who represents himself in the case requested a mistrial. Furman, in open court with no jury, read the note to Avenatti. Furman was asked by the prosecution to investigate the identity of the juror, assess the situation and possibly dismiss him.

Furman instructed jurors to carry on deliberating. She reminded them that their verdict had to be based solely upon the evidence or absence thereof and they shouldn’t be “swayed” by emotions or sympathy.

Daniels (real name Stephanie Clifford) received $130,000 in hush funds from Michael Cohen, the former US President. This was in exchange for being quiet about her sexual encounters with Trump in 2016.

Avenatti represented Daniels (42 years old) in her lawsuit against Trump. She was able to get out of a nondisclosure agreement. By arguing that it is only a dispute over legal fees, he has minimized his charges.

If convicted of the Daniels charges, Avenatti could face a sentence up to 22 years imprisonment. These are just a few of many accusations that would have brought down Avenatti’s legal career.

Avenatti has appealed a conviction and two-1/2 years imprisonment for extorting. Nike Inc (NYSE:) faces numerous California charges. He is accused of cheating clients, bank fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and tax fraud.