The midst of former President Donald Trump’s civil fraud trial, Judge Arthur Engoron’s recent inquiry has introduced a worrisome element for Trump’s business prospects in New York, according to a report by Raw Story on Saturday, January 13, 2024.
MSNBC legal analyst Lisa Rubin took to Twitter to illuminate the judge’s probing question and its potential ramifications for the Trump Organization.
The pivotal exchange unfolded between Judge Engoron and a prosecutor from New York Attorney General Letitia James’s team, centering on a comparison between the alleged fraud in the Trump Organization and the notorious Madoff Ponzi Scheme.
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Rubin emphasized this critical moment, quoting Judge Engoron’s question to the Attorney General’s lawyer: “How would you compare the fraud you are alleging to the Madoff Ponzi Scheme?”
The prosecutor responded by highlighting that while the scale of the fraud was smaller in terms of affected individuals and dollar amounts, its significance stemmed from its impact on a crucial, regulated industry. Notably, the funds acquired were utilized for property development, but the misleading tactics to secure bank revenue remained a serious concern.
Rubin underscored the contrasting attitudes of Trump and Bernie Madoff, noting Madoff’s expressions of remorse in contrast to Trump’s persistent defiance, consistently asserting his innocence.
According to Rubin, this contrast offers Judge Engoron grounds to suggest in the final ruling that Trump might engage in illegal activities again unless stringent measures are taken.
Referring to the Attorney General’s office, Rubin suggested that permanent injunctive relief might be deemed appropriate if there’s a reasonable likelihood that the violation will persist. Drawing parallels with the Madoff case, she stressed that a key factor in determining this likelihood is whether the defendant continues to maintain innocence regarding past conduct.
Rubin also highlighted differences in familial responses between the Madoff case and Trump’s situation. In the former, the father confessed, and his sons played a role in exposing him. In Trump’s case, both the patriarch and his progeny exhibit no regrets.
Furthermore, Rubin pointed out Trump’s confrontational approach in court, where he not only denied any wrongdoing but also publicly confronted the judge, complicating his legal predicament.
As the trial progresses, these developments raise inquiries about potential repercussions for the Trump Organization. With a $370 million fine on the line and the looming possibility of the organization’s dissolution, Judge Engoron’s questioning suggests an unfavorable outcome for Trump’s business ventures in New York.
