Judge Denies Trump’s Request to Delay $355 Million Fraud Case Judgment
In a blow to former President Donald Trump, Judge Arthur Engoron has denied his request to delay the judgment in a $355 million civil fraud case. The judge made his intentions clear in an email sent to lawyers for Trump and the New York attorney general on Thursday. This decision means that once the judgment is officially entered, Trump will have 30 days to file an appeal. During this time, he will be required to provide cash or post bond to cover the $355 million judgment, as well as roughly $100 million in interest that he has been ordered to pay.
As of late Thursday, the judgment had not been uploaded to the court website. However, Judge Engoron’s email rejecting Trump’s request for an additional 30 days made it clear that he saw no basis for a stay. Trump’s legal team failed to explain or justify any reasons for the delay.
The judge also indicated that he would sign off on the proposed judgment put forth by the New York attorney general’s office. He noted that Trump’s attorney did not identify any inaccuracies in the state’s papers or offer any alternative proposals. “The proposed judgment accurately reflects the spirit and letter of the February 16 Decision and Order,” Judge Engoron wrote.
In addition to the substantial payment, the judge imposed other penalties on Trump and his two adult sons. He banned Trump from serving as an officer of any New York business for three years and instituted a two-year ban on Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. The brothers were also ordered to each pay $4 million. Moreover, the judge extended the appointment of an independent monitor, who has been overseeing the Trump Organization since 2022, for at least three more years. The monitor will also recommend an independent compliance director for the organization.
These developments mark a significant setback for Trump and his business empire. The civil fraud case has exposed serious allegations of wrongdoing, leading to substantial financial consequences and the imposition of bans on Trump and his sons. The judgment serves as a stern reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or influence.
Trump Tower in New York City, a symbol of Trump’s business empire, stands as a backdrop to this legal battle. As the case unfolds, the repercussions are likely to be felt not only by Trump personally but also by his organization and its future prospects. The judgment will undoubtedly have lasting implications for Trump’s businesses, making it crucial for him to carefully consider his next steps.
The ruling by Judge Engoron is yet another chapter in the ongoing legal saga surrounding Trump and his business dealings. It remains to be seen how Trump will respond to this setback and whether he will pursue an appeal. In the meantime, the judgment serves as a reminder that even the most powerful individuals can face legal consequences for their actions.