In a recent verdict, Justice Arthur Engoron, who presided over a lengthy civil fraud trial in New York State against Donald Trump, has cast doubt over the testimony of key witnesses, most notably Trump and three of his offspring. With fines expected to exceed the astronomical sum of $450 million, this case has attracted significant attention both within legal sectors and from the broader public.
The Justice has been outspoken in his skepticism of the defense given by Trump and his children. The testimonies, according to the judge, were decidedly lacking in remembrance and remorse, two noticeable aspects in this case marking a break from typical legal proceedings.
In delivering his verdict, Justice Engoron stated that he factored in the “expressions, demeanor, and body language” of the witnesses as they testified. Notably, he also considered “simple touchstones of self-interest and other motives, common sense, and overall veracity”.
The legal world waits with bated breath to see the fallout following this ruling, particularly the impact on Trump’s real estate venture, as it faces a harsh financial penalty in the midst of an already turbulent landscape for the property industry.
For a full account of the trial and the text of the verdict, you can read more here.