A New York appeals court has denied former U.S. President Donald Trump’s request to postpone his civil fraud trial, scheduled for October 2nd. Trump had accused the trial judge of wrongfully refusing to dismiss most of the case. The appeals court ruled in favor of the trial moving forward, following state court Justice Arthur Engoron’s finding that Trump and his family business had fraudulently overvalued his assets to gain better loan and insurance terms. The trial was initiated by state Attorney General Letitia James, seeking penalties of at least $250 million and a ban on Trump and his sons from running businesses in New York.
In response to the appeals court’s decision, Trump’s lawyers and the defendants have yet to comment, while James’ office provided no immediate response. The fraud case is separate from the multiple criminal indictments Trump faces, including charges related to attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges and claims that the lawsuits against him are politically motivated. Despite his legal troubles, Trump remains a frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.
State court Justice Engoron’s ruling exposed evidence indicating that Trump had significantly inflated his fortune, potentially by $2.2 billion. It also led to the cancellation of certificates allowing some of Trump’s businesses to operate. This decision may require Trump to relinquish control of properties such as Trump Tower and various golf courses. Both the attorney general’s office and defense lawyers have disclosed extensive witness lists, potentially featuring over 100 individuals. Trump, his adult sons, and key figures from the Trump Organization, including former Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg, are expected to testify.
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