Former President Donald Trump lashed out on the witness stand on Monday while testifying in a civil fraud trial brought against the former president.
New York Attorney General Letitia James filed the $250 million lawsuit alleging Trump and his two sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, knowingly committing fraud by exaggerating the value of some of their assets in order to secure loans and get better insurance rates.
While on the stand, Trump described the trial as "crazy." At times the judge had to intervene, repeatedly telling Trump to answer the prosecutor's questions and not give lengthy speeches, noting that this was not a "political rally."
"I beseech you to control him," the judge told Trump's attorneys. "If you can't, I will."
Trump spent about four hours on the stand defending his business dealings and wealth.
"This is a scam," Trump said after leaving the courtroom. "This is a case that should have never been brought."
Good morning everyone.
We’re here at the New York Supreme Court where former President Trump is expected to testify today in the NY civil fraud trial.
I will be posting updates for you here. pic.twitter.com/j2LQiifLsi
— Ava-joye (@Avajoye) November 6, 2023
The judge has already ruled that the Trump Organization filed fraudulent statements of financial condition.
This part of the trial is to determine damages. James is suing on behalf of the state of New York for $250 million. The judge could also ban Trump from operating his business in New York.
Trump’s two oldest sons, who are executives at the Trump Organization, testified last week that they were not involved in their father’s annual statements of financial condition that allegedly show property prices were inflated.
Trump's daughter, Ivanka, is scheduled to testify on Wednesday.
The defense is expected to begin calling witnesses by late this week or early next week. The trial is expected to continue through mid-December.
Eric Trump testifies in $250 million Trump Organization fraud case
Donald Trump's son praised the company's achievements and criticized the trial as a "witch hunt" driven by "political" motives.
