Trump Faces $355 Million Penalty, 3-Year Ban for Property Price Fraud

In a significant legal setback for Donald Trump, a New York judge imposed a staggering $355 million penalty and a three-year ban following a lawsuit alleging he fraudulently inflated property values to secure loans. Trump faces multiple legal battles amid his political aspirations.

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In a major legal blow to former US President Donald Trump, a New York judge has imposed a hefty $355 million penalty and a three-year ban from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation. The ruling comes after a lengthy trial where Trump was accused of fraudulently inflating property values to obtain loans. Judge Arthur Engoron's decision, delivered after a two-and-a-half-month trial, represents a significant setback for Trump, especially as he gears up for potential political endeavors.

The lawsuit, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleged that Trump engaged in deceptive practices by overstating his net worth to deceive lenders. James, a Democrat, contended that Trump's actions were not merely harmless exaggerations but rather part of a pattern of fraudulent behavior spanning years. Trump's legal team had maintained his innocence throughout the trial and vowed to appeal the verdict.

The case revolved around accusations that Trump routinely exaggerated his financial statements, inflating property values by billions of dollars to secure favorable loan terms and complete projects. State lawyers argued that Trump's actions not only misled lenders but also allowed him to save on interest payments and undertake projects that he might otherwise not have been able to afford.

Even before the trial began, Judge Engoron had ruled in favor of the attorney general, finding evidence that Trump's financial statements were fraudulent. This ruling led to the removal of some of Trump's companies from his control and their dissolution, although an appeals court later put this decision on hold.

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During the trial, Trump vehemently defended himself, claiming that his financial statements understated his net worth and asserting that banks were satisfied with his financial standing. Despite his assertions, the court found Trump's statements to be misleading and reflective of a concerted effort to deceive lenders.

Trump's legal troubles extend beyond this case, with multiple ongoing criminal investigations and civil litigations. Despite the legal challenges, Trump remains active in the political arena, seeking to maintain influence within the Republican Party and positioning himself for a potential return to the White House.

The ruling represents a significant setback for Trump, signaling the potential consequences of his past business practices. As he navigates through legal challenges and controversies, Trump's future remains uncertain, with both supporters and critics closely watching his next moves.