In the New York fraud case, Donald Trump, in tears, insists, ‘It’s not fraud; it’s fraud against me.
In a high-stakes legal battle that could reshape the future of former President Donald Trump’s financial landscape, the New York civil fraud trial concluded on Thursday, marking the end of proceedings that commenced on October 2nd. Both the prosecution and defense presented their final arguments before Justice Arthur Engoron, who is expected to deliver a verdict by January 31st.
The State Attorney General’s office has leveled accusations against Trump, asserting his involvement in a fraudulent scheme aimed at inflating his wealth by over a billion dollars. Trump vehemently denies these allegations, launching verbal attacks on the judge and the Attorney General.
The case, conducted as a bench trial without a jury, could have significant consequences for Trump, including potential fines of up to $370 million and a permanent ban from the New York real estate industry, where he has established his reputation.
During the closing arguments presented by Trump’s legal team, the former president took an unexpected turn by requesting permission to address the court directly. His lawyer, Chris Kise, had previously made a similar request via email, which the judge initially rejected. However, Trump was granted up to five minutes to speak, with the judge urging him to stick to the “facts” of the case. Despite this guidance, Trump deviated from the judge’s advice.
In an unscripted address, Trump asserted his innocence, claiming, “We’re in a situation where I am an innocent man. I should be compensated for what I’ve endured.” He vehemently denied any involvement in consumer fraud or scams, framing the case as a “betrayal” against him.
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Trump’s remarks did not stop at self-defense; he also directed disrespectful comments towards the presiding judge and Attorney General Letitia James, accusing the latter of personal bias. He labeled the trial as “persecution” and implied that James harbored animosity towards him.
In response, the judge intervened, urging someone to “please control your client” as Trump continued to vent his frustrations in the courtroom.
Attorney General Letitia James, addressing the media after the proceedings, emphasized that the case is rooted in facts and the law, stating unequivocally, “This case is about facts and the law, and Mr. Donald Trump has violated the law.”
The Attorney General’s legal team, Kevin Wallace and Andrew Amer, presented evidence suggesting deliberate manipulation of Trump’s financial disclosures between 2011 and 2021. They questioned whether Trump intentionally distorted annual financial disclosures, constituting a conspiracy. The prosecution specifically highlighted instances where Trump claimed his Trump Tower Triplex apartment was significantly larger and more valuable than estimated, alleging a concerted effort to deceive.
Trump’s legal team did not wait for the trial’s conclusion to make their case. Immediately following the closing arguments, they held a press conference at the Trump Organization’s 40 Wall Street property, dismissing the allegations and characterizing James as a “political hack.”
As the legal community awaits Justice Engoron’s decision, the outcome of this trial could have far-reaching implications for Donald Trump, shaping not only his financial future but also influencing the trajectory of his involvement in the New York real estate arena.
