According to Mediaite, former President Donald Trump’s fraud trial took a dramatic turn during closing arguments, with Trump and his attorney Alina Habba delivering stunning statements. The trial, initiated by Attorney General Letitia James and overseen by Judge Arthur Engoron, had moments of unexpected fireworks, both inside and outside the courtroom.
Prior to the closing arguments, Trump expressed his discontent with the case outside the courtroom, leading pool cameras to capture the scene. In the courtroom, Trump was observed glaring at reporters and muttered something inaudible and intimidating them, while Habba remained composed, and AG James gave a slight smile. Judge Engoron engaged in banter with his clerk.
Trump had initially been barred from speaking in court due to his lawyers’ refusal to agree to restrictions, but Engoron eventually allowed him to speak. In a surprising turn of events, both Trump and Habba delivered impassioned statements:
During the trial, Trump held a press conference filled with falsehoods and took aim at the case. He asserted his innocence, criticized AG James, and claimed he was a victim of persecution.
Engoron asked Trump if he could adhere to the restrictions and limit his comments to the case’s facts. Trump indicated his reluctance to comply but proceeded to speak anyway. He defended the financial statements, claimed banks were satisfied, and accused AG James of misusing a statute designed for consumer fraud.
Trump argued that he was an innocent man targeted by someone running for office and insisted the case was a fraud against him. He called for the state to pay him damages as a form of punishment. Trump directed his frustration towards Judge Engoron, accusing him of having his own agenda and being unable to listen for more than a minute.
Engoron responded by questioning Trump’s claim of never having a problem before running for office, citing past lawsuits. Despite interruptions, Trump maintained his innocence and insisted on compensation for the challenges he faced.
The closing arguments and Trump’s subsequent press conference added intense moments to the already high-profile fraud trial, with emotions running high on both sides.
