Former President Donald Trump appeared in a Manhattan courthouse for the second day in a row to observe the civil trial over alleged business fraud committed by him and his company. The trial, which began on Monday, centers around New York Attorney General Letitia James’ $250 million lawsuit, in which she accuses Trump and his organization of engaging in fraudulent practices and manipulating financial statements. Trump’s defense argues that there was no wrongdoing and that assets can be evaluated in various ways. The trial could result in severe penalties, including a demand for Trump and his company to pay $250 million. Judge Arthur Engoron, who presides over the case, previously ordered that Trump be stripped of his business licenses, potentially affecting properties such as Trump Tower.
Trump took the opportunity to speak extensively to reporters before and during the hearing, expressing his grievances about the case, James, and Engoron. On Tuesday, Trump repeated many of his points from the previous day, criticizing James and asserting that his properties were worth more than she claimed. The trial, which could last for weeks or months, may also involve Trump’s testimony. Moreover, Trump is facing criminal charges in separate cases in New York, Florida, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. Despite pleading not guilty and denouncing the inquiries as politically motivated, he faces significant legal jeopardy.
During the trial, the focus has been on real estate valuations and the creation of financial statements. Attorneys for James have argued that Trump and his associates aimed to issue false financial statements and commit fraud. Trump’s defense vehemently denies any illegality or fraud, contending that there are no victims in this case. Engoron’s recent remarks suggested the possibility of excluding evidence related to older transactions, which Trump’s attorneys believe should be dismissed due to a recent appellate court ruling on statutes of limitations. Trump interpreted this as a victory, anticipating a potential dismissal of a significant portion of the attorney general’s case. However, Engoron clarified his comments and stated that he would not be dismissing any claims in the trial. The trial continues with further testimony, including that of Donald Bender, a longtime accountant for Trump’s company and its executives.
Sources:
– The Washington Post: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiTmh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9wb2xpdGljcy8yMDIzLzEwLzAzL3RydW1wLWNpdmlsLWZyYXVkLXRyaWFsLW55L9IBAA?oc=5
– The Washington Post: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiTmh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9wb2xpdGljcy8yMDIzLzEwLzAzL3RydW1wLWNpdmlsLWZyYXVkLXRyaWFsLW55L9IBAA?oc=5
