Why cooperation matters
Cooperating witnesses change the posture of a federal case because they can compress proof, shape plea negotiations, and influence sentencing exposure.
Where the pressure comes from
The leverage is usually built through charging decisions, mandatory minimums, and the threat of trial penalties. That makes the timing and scope of cooperation a strategic issue.
Defense implications
The defense has to test credibility, corroboration, and motive. Cooperation is evidence, but it is not the whole case.