Former President Donald Trump vehemently criticized New York Attorney General Letitia James on his social media platform, Truth Social, following James’ plea for a $370 million fine and a lifetime ban from the New York real estate industry for Trump and his company, the Trump Organization, over allegations of civil fraud.
In a post-trial brief filed on Friday, January 7, 2024, James contended that Trump and his organization had inflated their assets to secure loans and insurance policies, committing fraud. Judge Arthur F. Engoron, overseeing the civil fraud trial that commenced in October and concluded last month, will determine the final fine amount and other sanctions.
Originally estimating a $250 million fine, James increased the penalty after reviewing trial evidence and testimony. Trump took to Truth Social, calling James a “lunatic” and accusing her of collaborating with President Joe Biden’s Justice Department to politically harm him. He vehemently asserted his innocence, claiming that his financial statements were impeccable and that James and the judge had devalued his Mar-a-Lago property.
Trump further asserted prosecutorial misconduct and suggested that he should be compensated. He labeled James’ lawsuit a state case, not a federal one, and criticized her for focusing on him rather than addressing the escalating crime and violence in New York.
Social media reactions to Trump’s posts were diverse, with some mocking his financial troubles and legal woes, while others expressed sympathy and support. Trump’s lawyer, Christopher M. Kise, condemned James’ request as “unconscionable” and “unconstitutionally excessive,” while the Trump Organization labeled it a “gross overreach” that should deeply concern New York’s business community.
The civil fraud case is part of a broader legal landscape for Trump in New York, where he faces a criminal investigation by James and Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. for potential tax evasion, bank fraud, and insurance fraud
