In Donald Trump’s New York civil fraud trial, Justice Arthur Engoron has criticized the credibility of Eli Bartov, an expert witness paid nearly $1 million. Bartov, a New York University accounting professor, testified that Trump’s real estate company’s financial statements showed no evidence of fraud, contradicting allegations of inflated property values to secure favorable loans and insurance. Bartov received around $877,500 for his 650-hour involvement, funded by the Trump Organization and Save America, Trump’s 2024 campaign PAC.
Engoron’s ruling questioned Bartov’s objectivity, suggesting his high compensation influenced his testimony. Bartov defended his stance, claiming his billing rate was standard and his opinion unbiased. Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, criticized the judge’s ruling for not fully addressing legal claims.
The trial, primarily centered on damages, earlier saw Engoron conclude that Trump and his sons manipulated financial statements. New York Attorney General Letitia James seeks $250 million in penalties and a ban on Trump’s real estate activities in New York. Trump, facing other state and federal criminal indictments, has denied wrongdoing, labeling the case as politically motivated. Closing arguments are scheduled for January 11.
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