Legal Ruling on Trump Fraud Judgment
A five-judge panel on a New York appellate court on Thursday ruled that a $515 million fraud judgment against President Donald Trump was unconstitutional, finding it ran afoul of the Eighth Amendment’s ban on excessive fines.
Background of the Case
The original sanction, handed down by Judge Arthur Engoron in the civil fraud case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, was about $355 million. Interest and additional assessments pushed the total to more than $500 million by August, according to Newsmax.
The Allegations and Trump's Response
James had alleged that Trump misstated the value of his properties to obtain better loan terms and reduce insurance costs. Trump has denied any illegal conduct, though Engoron ruled in favor of the state after a bench trial.
Significance of the Appellate Decision
The appellate decision represents a significant victory for Trump as he faces multiple legal challenges ahead of the 2024 election. He has largely withstood other cases, with the notable exception of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s prosecution related to alleged falsified busine...