The civil fraud trial involving former President Donald Trump took a dramatic turn as the presiding judge, Arthur Engoron, expressed his frustration over a derogatory post about the judge’s clerk that appeared on Trump’s campaign website. This incident adds to the growing tension in a case already marked by contentious interactions.
Judge Engoron was visibly upset upon discovering that a derogatory post about his clerk, which Trump had originally shared on his social media site on October 3, was duplicated on his campaign website. Although the post was removed shortly after Engoron issued a limited gag order, its replication on the campaign site provoked the judge’s ire. During Friday’s proceedings, Engoron questioned Trump’s legal team about potential “serious” sanctions, including financial penalties or even imprisonment for the former President.
Trump’s attorney, Christopher Kise, offered an apology for what he described as an “errant oversight.” He attributed the replication to the presidential campaign’s “machinery” and assured that there had been no subsequent postings about the clerk or other court staff. However, Judge Engoron appeared unconvinced, emphasizing Trump’s responsibility for his campaign’s actions.
Later, after a break, Kise revisited the issue, providing statistics to illustrate the limited reach of the post. He noted that of the 114 million visitors to the campaign website between October 3 and 19, only 3,701 viewed the post. Engoron responded humorously about their increasing tech savviness.
Ultimately, Judge Engoron decided to impose a $5,000 fine on Friday afternoon, citing the potential for “incendiary untruths” to cause physical harm in the current climate.
The case against Trump, his adult sons, and The Trump Organization involves allegations of overvaluing properties and net worth to secure favorable loans and insurance, purportedly benefiting them by at least $250 million. Last month, Engoron found that Trump and his company “repeatedly” violated state fraud law. The defendants have denied all allegations, with their attorneys arguing that what is being labeled as fraud were merely subjective valuations of property and wealth.
The trial has been marked by several heated exchanges. An attorney for New York Attorney General Letitia James called Kise “rude” during a sidebar. The previous day, two of James’ attorneys had a vocal altercation with Kise over a witness’s right against self-incrimination. Additionally, Engoron had to admonish Trump for his behavior in court, as he was seen expressing frustration and gesturing during a witness’s testimony.
The civil fraud trial continues to unfold with high drama and significant implications. The interactions in the courtroom reflect the intense scrutiny and high stakes of the case. As the trial progresses, all eyes remain on how these legal battles will play out for Trump and his organization.
