The civil fraud trial opened in New York on Monday, October 2, where Trump is accused of overstating his businesses and properties.
All smoke and mirrors?
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Donald Trump is accused of falsely inflating the value of his business empire and his net worth by several billion dollars...
The best of everything
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...in order to obtain better commercial contracts, better financial loans and better interest rates, among other things.
Damning details
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The details of these charges are damning, as he is accused of persistent and repeated fraud, falsification of business records, conspiracy to falsify business records...
Fraud?
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...publication of false financial statements, conspiracy to falsify financial statements, insurance fraud and conspiracy to commit insurance fraud.
Cameras
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Cameras were briefly allowed into the room before the court proceedings began, as Trump sat with his lawyers.
"Not the real world."
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The judge has already ruled in the majority of this case that Trump overvalued his businesses and properties for fraudulent financial gain, and said, "It's a fantasy world... not the real world."
Harsh words
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Certainly harsh words about the management of Trump's businesses by Donald Trump and his sons.
Good for his campaign?
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Trump, who was not required to be present at the opening of this civil trial, is banking on the publicity it will bring him for his presidential campaign.
Letitia James
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New York Attorney General Letitia James' pre-trial message is clear: "My message is simple. No matter how powerful you are, no matter how much money you think you have, no one is above the law."
250M$
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The attorney general in the case is seeking $250 million in damages, banishment from serving as officers of a New York company and a five-year ban on business transactions, which would put an end to the Trump Organization.
Trump Organization
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The Trump Organization has developed and managed a wide range of real estate properties, including luxury condominiums, office buildings, hotels and resorts.
Mar-a-Lago
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Some of the most famous properties include Trump Tower in New York and the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Operations
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The organization has operated hotels and resorts under the Trump brand in various locations around the world. These properties are often associated with luxury and upscale accommodations
President or CEO?
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Donald Trump was the face of the organization for many years, but stepped away from day-to-day operations while President of the United States.
The next generation
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His children, in particular Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and Ivanka Trump, have played an important role in running the company.
The sons
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Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump are also targeted in this fraud trial, while Ivanka Trump was cleared of all charges earlier this year.
Until December 22
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The former President of the United States is expected to testify in his defense next week, when the trial is expected to last until December 22. Stay tuned!