LISTEN HERE:
Donald Trump Appeals $454 Million New York Civil Fraud Judgment, Denounces Verdict as “Election Interference”
Former President Trump has taken action against the recent New York civil fraud judgment of $454 million, contesting a judge’s determination that he misrepresented his wealth during the rise of his real estate empire. Trump’s legal team filed appeals Monday, challenging Judge Arthur Engoron’s ruling in Attorney General Letitia James’ lawsuit, aiming to overturn the verdict and mitigate the substantial penalties that threaten to deplete Trump’s financial resources.
Trump’s lawyers have lodged complaints asserting that Engoron may have erred in both law and fact and potentially overstepped his authority. This appeal marks the initiation of the appeals process in New York, with Trump’s legal team poised to elaborate on their grievances in forthcoming court filings.
Despite the appeal, Trump faces the looming prospect of enforcement of the judgment, which could proceed unabated unless a stay is secured by March 25. A stay would temporarily suspend collection efforts during the appeals process. However, obtaining a stay typically requires providing financial assurances equivalent to the owed amount.
Trump, adamant in his defense, labeled Engoron’s decision as “election interference” and decried it as a politically motivated attack. He has consistently maintained his innocence, denouncing the accusations as a ploy to undermine his reputation and tarnish his legacy.
Engoron’s ruling, if upheld, would necessitate a substantial financial outlay from Trump, potentially impacting his financial standing significantly. Trump contends that the allegations against him are politically motivated and part of a broader effort to discredit him.
This legal battle adds to Trump’s litany of legal challenges, including criminal indictments in various jurisdictions. Despite the mounting legal pressure, Trump remains resolute in his assertion of innocence and determination to vindicate himself against what he perceives as politically motivated attacks.
As Trump continues to confront legal challenges on multiple fronts, the outcome of his appeals in New York could have far-reaching implications for his financial well-being and legal standing.