Trump's Fiery Defense in New York Civil Fraud Trial

Former President Donald Trump's New York civil fraud trial came to a fiery close when Trump took the chance to address the judge, Justice Arthur Engoron, despite warnings and restrictions imposed earlier in the proceedings. He presented himself as an innocent man, vehemently denying the accusations put forward by the State Attorney General's Office. The AG's office claimed that Trump falsified financial statements over a decade to gain financial advantage. Trump and his lawyers criticized the judge and his closed-door, single-handed decision-making authority in the case.

The judge aims to make a final decision by January 31, which could result in a potential $370 million penalty and a permanent ban from the New York real estate industry for Trump. The trial revolved around whether Trump falsified statements for his real estate properties to obtain favorable bank loans or insurance terms. His Mar-a-Lago estate was used as an example, alleging that Trump inflated the value of the property. According to Kevin Wallace, a lawyer for the AG's office, the financial records were falsified to the tune of $2.2 billion over a 10-year period. Trump's lawyer, Christopher Kise, argued that the case was a manufactured claim with insufficient evidence.

They dismissed claims of any alleged manipulation of property valuations as insignificant. The trial was held under tightened security due to a reported bomb threat at the judge's home. Protesters gathered outside the courthouse, chanting "No Dictators in the USA". If found liable, Trump may face severe financial penalties and a ban from conducting business in the state, which could have significant consequences for his business empire. Trump's legal troubles continue to loom as he seeks to reenter the political stage and challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming US election.