In the ongoing $250 million civil fraud trial involving former President Donald Trump, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron has ruled that Ivanka Trump, the former president’s daughter, must testify in the case. This decision comes after Trump’s attorneys contested a subpoena issued by New York Attorney General Letitia James, arguing that Ivanka should be dropped as a defendant due to statute of limitations issues.
The judge’s ruling on Friday stated that Ivanka Trump could not avoid testifying and ordered her to appear as a witness after November 1. This timeline allows her the opportunity to appeal the decision, should she choose to do so. The case, which has drawn nationwide attention, revolves around allegations of financial misconduct within the Trump Organization.
Trump’s legal team had vehemently opposed the subpoena, claiming that Ivanka Trump, who served as a White House official during her father’s presidency, should not be subjected to further legal scrutiny. They accused the Attorney General’s office of persistent harassment, asserting that Ivanka had been absolved of her role in the case by an appeals court earlier in the year.
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However, the Attorney General’s office countered these claims, emphasizing Ivanka Trump’s continued financial and professional ties to the Trump Organization. According to the prosecution, Ivanka remains intricately linked to the organization’s dealings, a fact that remains relevant to the case at hand. They argued that despite attempts to distance herself from the organization’s affairs, Ivanka had consistently benefited from its transactions, including the sale of the Old Post Office (OPO) hotel, insurance purchases, and even the payment of her legal fees related to this legal action.
Attorney General Letitia James highlighted Ivanka Trump’s selective involvement, stating, “It is only when she is tasked with answering for that involvement that she disclaims any connection.” This statement underscores the prosecution’s contention that Ivanka’s involvement in the family business was substantial, contradicting her attempts to evade legal responsibilities.
The court’s decision to compel Ivanka Trump’s testimony marks a significant step forward in the trial, shedding light on the intricacies of the alleged fraud within the Trump Organization. As the legal proceedings unfold, the nation watches closely, awaiting further revelations in this high-stakes case.
