On April 13, 2023, New York City witnessed the dramatic return of former President Donald Trump as he attended a deposition for the business fraud lawsuit brought forth by New York District Attorney General Letitia James.
The legal turmoil has been intensifying since September 2022, with allegations claiming that Trump and his children engaged in dubious practices to secure loans and tax benefits. If convicted, they could face a staggering $250 million in damages and a prohibition from conducting business in New York State.
Arriving at Trump Tower, the former president offered a brisk wave before disappearing inside. True to form, Trump took to social media to lambast Attorney General James, branding her as “racist” and “TRUMP HATING.” He championed his company’s achievements and global influence, expressing exasperation at having to prove his innocence to someone he labeled a “LOWLIFE.” The judge overseeing the case did not escape Trump’s disparaging remarks either.
The deposition transpired behind closed doors at the Manhattan Supreme Court. James’ legal team rigorously questioned Trump under oath for hours, a crucial step in the discovery process as they build their case against him and his family. According to The New York Times, this deposition represents just one component of a broader campaign to hold the Trump family accountable.
Central to the lawsuit is a series of alleged fraudulent activities, including the use of fabricated financial statements for personal profit, misappropriation of Trump Organization assets, and manipulation of property valuations to obtain loans and insurance coverage. If found guilty, the Trump family could face restitution, damages, and penalties, in addition to the New York business ban.
Undeterred by the legal challenges, Trump’s supporters gathered outside the court, chanting slogans and brandishing signs in solidarity with their embattled leader. Trump continues to reject any allegations of misconduct, accusing James and her associates of orchestrating a politically motivated witch hunt.
This deposition is merely one of many legal obstacles confronting Trump. As criminal investigations and civil lawsuits accumulate, the road ahead appears increasingly treacherous for the former president.
