New York AG Declares Court Confirms Trump's Fraudulent Actions, Despite Reduced Financial Judgment

(Photo: New York Courts) - On Thursday, the New York Court of Appeals affirmed a Manhattan Court's determination that Donald Trump and the Trump Organization engaged in civil fraud during their business operations, but reversed what they deemed “excessive fines” against the Trump Organization.The Court clarified its reasoning for lifting the $500 million penalty imposed on Trump, stating, “While the injunctive relief ordered by the court effectively addresses the defendants’ business practices, the court’s disgorgement mandate, which compels the defendants to pay nearly half a billion dollars to the State of New York, constitutes an excessive fine in violation of the Eighth Amendment.”Following Trump’s initial fraud conviction, New York Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron ruled that Trump was liable for $355 million, a figure that has now exceeded $527 million with additional penalties and interest.In her response, New York Attorney General Letitia James remarked, “The First Department has confirmed the trial court’s solid findings: Donald Trump, his firm, and two of his children are liable for fraud." She added intentions to appeal the judgment reduction to New York’s highest court.