As the months-long civil fraud trial of Donald Trump draws to a close, the former U.S. president engaged in a heated exchange with the New York judge overseeing the case.
Allegations Of Inflated Net Worth
The trial, which could have significant implications for Trump’s business empire, centers on allegations of inflating his net worth to secure better financing. The judge, deciding the case without a jury, is expected to issue a ruling by January 31.
Trump’s Accusation Against The Judge
During the final day of the trial in Manhattan, Trump accused Justice Arthur Engoron, the presiding judge, of having a personal agenda.
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Control Your Client
Engoron responded by advising Trump’s lawyer to control his client. Trump continued to deny any wrongdoing and reiterated claims of political persecution.
Closing Arguments In A Fraud Case
Trump’s legal team and the office of New York Attorney General Letitia James presented their closing arguments. The case revolves around accusations that Trump’s company issued false financial statements between 2011 and 2021 to deceive banks.
$370 Million In Damages
James seeks nearly $370 million in damages and a lifetime ban on Trump from the state’s real-estate industry.
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Responsibility For False Financial Statements
The state’s attorney, Andrew Amer, argued that Trump’s financial statements clearly indicated his responsibility for their contents, emphasizing that “the buck stopped with him.”
Trump’s Political Future
While facing this legal battle, Trump is also the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
Iowa In The Bag, Nh Next On Cards
The closing arguments occurred as Republican voters in New Hampshire prepared to make their preferred party nominee selection, with Iowa already having chosen Trump as the GOP candidate.
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Security Concerns
Heightened security was in place during the closing arguments due to a reported bomb threat at Judge Engoron’s home. Trump has been critical of the judge in the past, and their exchanges were contentious throughout the trial.
Judge’s Skepticism
During the trial, Judge Engoron expressed skepticism about Trump’s defense argument that he should not be penalized for manipulating property values since lenders and insurers still profited. Engoron indicated that evidence of harm was not necessary.
Trump’s Legal Challenges
Apart from this civil fraud trial, Trump faces four criminal prosecutions, including two related to attempts to overturn the 2020 election. These legal challenges may go to trial before the election.
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Defense Argument Of A “Manufactured Claim”
Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, argued that the entire case was a “manufactured claim” driven by a political agenda, lacking substantial proof.
Trump’s Admission And Harmlessness
In November, Trump admitted to providing inaccurate property valuations but claimed any manipulation was harmless. Kise argued that banks and insurers would have been eager to work with Trump even with a lower net worth.
Involvement Of Trump’s Children
Clifford Robert, representing Trump’s sons Donald Jr. and Eric, stated that there was no significant evidence of their involvement in the financial statements, characterizing the case as a “press release wrapped up in a lawsuit.”
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Security Concerns Throughout The Trial
Security concerns persisted throughout the lengthy trial, including threats directed at the judge’s top staffer. This led to a gag order prohibiting Trump from disparaging court staff. Trump was also fined $15,000 for violating the order.
Trump’s Response And Supporters
As the trial concluded, Trump held a news conference, accusing President Biden, without evidence, of orchestrating lawsuits and criminal cases against him. Supporters chanted his name as he left the building.
Attorney General James’s Arrival
As New York Attorney General Letitia James arrived at the courthouse, she received cheers and support from onlookers. Police presence was tight, and entrances to the building were closely controlled.
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