Trump Challenges $454m Penalty in New York Civil Fraud Case. Former President Donald Trump appeals against a $454m penalty in a civil fraud case in New York. The appeal could impact the legal battle and upcoming elections.
In a recent development, former US President Donald Trump is appealing against a ruling by a New York judge, which orders him to pay a penalty of $454 million in a civil fraud case. The judgment initially amounted to $355 million, but with the addition of interest, the total amount has skyrocketed. Interest will continue to accrue at a rate of at least $112,000 per day.
The Allegations and Consequences
The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, has stated that if Trump fails to pay the penalty, she will seek to seize some of his assets. The case revolves around allegations that Trump inflated the values of his properties to secure more favorable loan terms. Judge Arthur Engoron, who presided over the case, not only ordered Trump to pay the significant penalty but also banned him from conducting any business in the state for a period of three years.
Trump’s Response and Legal Battle
Unsurprisingly, Trump has expressed his intention to appeal against the ruling, referring to it as a “political witch hunt.” His lawyer, Alina Habba, has voiced hope that the appeal court will overturn the fine and take steps to restore public faith in New York’s legal system. Trump’s legal team has previously challenged the judge’s rulings on multiple occasions, including a gag order.
Focus on Alleged Bias and Consumer-Protection Statute
Trump’s appeal is expected to focus on the alleged bias of Judge Engoron, who is affiliated with the Democratic Party. Additionally, Trump’s lawyers argue that he was wrongly sued under a consumer-protection statute typically used to address fraudulent practices by businesses that deceive customers. The former president’s appeal is likely to prolong the legal battle, setting the stage for a potential rematch against Democratic President Joe Biden in the upcoming election.
