New York Attorney General Seeks $370 Million from Trump in Explosive Fraud Trial
New York Attorney General Letitia James is demanding over $370 million from Donald Trump and seeks to bar him from conducting any business in the state as the civil fraud trial into his family’s business practices concludes.
Allegations of Fraudulent Practices
The fraud case, initially filed by James, accuses Trump of inflating property values, including his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, to secure favorable loan terms.
Originally seeking $250 million, James now argues for a higher amount, citing the former president’s ‘myriad deceptive schemes’ to inflate asset values and conceal crucial facts.
Rebuttal from Trump’s Legal Team
Trump’s attorneys respond by claiming that James lacks evidence to support her allegations, emphasizing the absence of any witnesses corroborating the accusations.
Despite this, Judge Arthur Engoron has already found Trump and his sons, Don Jr. and Eric, liable for fraud.
Post-Trial Developments
The post-trial briefs follow an 11-week explosive trial that concluded last month.
Closing arguments are scheduled for the upcoming week, with a ruling expected by the end of the month.
Trump’s legal team rested its defense on December 13, facing resistance from the judge, who dismissed the likelihood of ruling in their favor.
Trump’s Defiance and Media Presence
Throughout the trial, Trump has defiantly criticized the proceedings, attacking Judge Engoron and utilizing the platform to make frequent media appearances.
Despite his absence from his own defense and a surprise appearance by son Eric, Trump’s legal team has faced challenges in their attempts to contest the prosecution’s case.
Potential Financial Penalties and Business Restrictions
The trial, initially aimed at determining a $250 million financial penalty, has expanded to assess the extent of Trump’s business repercussions, including his ability to operate in New York State.
Trump’s vocal opposition to the trial has coincided with a rise in poll numbers against Republican opponents and President Joe Biden.
Additional Prosecution Actions
In the recent month, the prosecution focused on the valuation of Trump’s penthouse apartment, alleging a $200 million overvaluation by his firm.
Testimony from Trump International Realty executive Kevin Sneddon revealed reliance on information from former Trump Organization executive Allen Weisselberg, raising questions about the accuracy of the valuation.
As the trial approaches its conclusion, the legal battle continues to unfold, shaping the potential financial and business future of Donald Trump in New York.
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