Donald Trump Plans to Make His Own Closing Argument in Civil Fraud Trial
Former President Donald Trump is set to make his own closing argument in his civil fraud trial in a Manhattan courtroom on Thursday, according to reports.
Trump’s Desire to Speak
While Trump’s lawyers will deliver their closing statements as usual, Trump has expressed his desire to add his own statements at the conclusion of the case brought against him by New York Attorney General Letitia James, according to sources familiar with the plan.
Judge’s Approval
Judge Arthur Engoron has approved this unusual request, which was relayed to him by Trump’s lawyers earlier this week.
Potential Change of Plans
Despite the approval, Trump still has the option to change his mind and allow his lawyers to handle the closing arguments. In December, he canceled his testimony as a witness, stating that he had “nothing more to say.”
The New York Post has reached out to Trump’s legal team for comment.
Accusations Against Trump
Trump is being accused by Attorney General Letitia James of inflating his net worth by billions of dollars on financial statements in order to save money on business loans and insurance.
Increased Fine
Initially seeking $250 million, state lawyers have requested an increased fine of over $370 million against Trump, according to court papers filed last Friday.
Throughout the trial, Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has criticized James and the judge handling the case.
Trump’s Outbursts
In November, Trump erupted in court during his testimony, leading Judge Engoron to threaten to remove him from the witness stand. Trump has also expressed his frustration outside of the courtroom and on his social media platform, Truth Social.
He has referred to the case as a “hoax” and the proceedings as “a pathetic excuse for a trial.”
Allegations Against Trump’s Assets
The Attorney General’s office has accused Trump, his business, and some of his top executives of defrauding banks and insurers by overvaluing his assets, including Trump Tower in New York City and Mar-a-Lago in Florida.
The AG’s office claims that these inflated figures allowed Trump to secure more favorable rates while withholding crucial information from insurers and lenders.
Trump’s Defense
Trump’s legal team argues that he fulfilled the terms of his deals and repaid the loans he received. They also claim that the financial statements provided were unaudited estimates that recipients should have reviewed themselves.
They further argue that any overstatements were minor errors and that the net worth amounts provided by Trump were actually too low, not too high.
Verdict Expected Soon
Judge Engoron has stated that he expects to reach a verdict by the end of the month.
With Post wires
