The judge presiding over Donald Trump’s $250 million civil fraud trial in Manhattan became visibly frustrated during the proceedings. Trump’s lawyers were cross-examining his ex-accountant, and the judge, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron, admonished them for what he considered repetitive questioning and a lack of focus.
The judge stated, “This is ridiculous!” after Trump’s lawyers claimed the accountant was evading their questions and insisted on meticulously going through Trump’s financial records “year by year.” Engoron reminded them that the accountant was not on trial and urged them not to waste time. Trump’s attorneys argued that they needed to thoroughly examine the evidence to defend their client.
Engoron also chided Trump’s legal team for conducting the trial as if a jury were present when there was none. Trump, who had been attending the trial, reportedly expressed frustration during the proceedings and left for Florida after the lunch break.
The trial centers on allegations by the New York Attorney General, Letitia James, that Trump committed fraud by exaggerating his assets to obtain loans and insurance benefits. Trump has denied the allegations, and the trial is ongoing.