Former President and 2024 Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump’s estranged niece Mary Trump’s recent post suggests that the potential sale of Mar-a-Lago could be the factor pushing her uncle, to the “brink of ruin” in the ongoing New York civil fraud case.
According to a report by Newsweek on Saturday, January 6, the case, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleges that Trump, along with his adult sons and The Trump Organization, engaged in fraudulent overvaluation of assets to secure more favorable loans and tax deals
Initially seeking $250 million in damages, James has now increased the claim to $370 million, plus interest, citing new evidence that emerged during the trial.
Judge Arthur Engoron, overseeing the case, previously ruled in September 2023 that Trump, his sons, The Trump Organization, and several business associates were liable for civil fraud.
The subsequent trial delved into potential violations of New York laws and the appropriate penalties for Trump.
Throughout the proceedings, Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence.
The latest court filing by James not only seeks the increased financial penalty but also calls for a permanent ban on Trump operating in New York’s real estate market.
Additionally, James proposes five-year bans for Trump’s sons, Eric and Donald Trump Jr.
In response to these developments, Mary Trump, Donald Trump’s estranged niece, expressed her perspective on the potential impact of forcing Trump to sell Mar-a-Lago.
While acknowledging that the suggested $370 million fine and a lifetime ban from the New York real estate market would significantly affect Trump, Mary Trump emphasizes that selling Mar-a-Lago could be the decisive blow.
Attorney Joe Gallina, with whom Mary Trump reportedly spoke, shared insights into the legal dynamics surrounding Mar-a-Lago.
Despite Florida having residence protection laws, these traditionally apply to regular residences, and Mar-a-Lago, being a members-only club with guest rooms, does not fall under the usual protections. Gallina suggested that Mar-a-Lago might not be shielded from Judge Engoron’s impending ruling.
However, Trump’s legal team, in their filing on Friday, countered James’ claims, arguing that she is not entitled to disgorgement and has failed to demonstrate real-world impact or rebut the substantial evidence to the contrary.
The legal back-and-forth continues, with the fate of Mar-a-Lago hanging in the balance.
As the trial unfolds, the implications for Donald Trump extend beyond financial penalties to potential restrictions on his real estate activities and the possible sale of his iconic Mar-a-Lago resort, a move that Mary Trump suggests could bring him to the “brink of ruin.”
The legal intricacies and the unfolding drama surrounding this case will undoubtedly be closely watched by the public and legal observers alike.
