N.Y. Attorney General Letitia James Says She’s Ready To Seize Trump’s Buildings If He Can’t Pay $355 Million Fraud Fine On Time

In the latest development of Donald Trump‘s legal battles, New York Attorney General Letitia James declared that her office is ready to seize Trump’s buildings if he fails to pay the $354 million fine imposed by a judge in his civil fraud case on time.

In conversation with ABC News’ Aaron Katersky, James emphasized that if Trump cannot cover the judgment, her office will seek judgment enforcement mechanisms in court and request the seizure of his assets.

Judge Arthur Engoron ruled last week that Trump must pay $354.8 million, along with approximately $100 million in pre-judgment interest, after it was found that he had inflated his net worth to obtain more favorable loan terms.

Trump has continuously denied any wrongdoing and plans to appeal the ruling.

James expressed confidence in the strength of her case on appeal and reiterated her office’s determination to collect the court-ordered fine from Trump. She specifically mentioned Trump’s 40 Wall Street skyscraper as a potential asset subject to seizure. James explained that her office is “prepared to make sure that the judgment is paid to New Yorkers,” and added, “and yes, I look at 40 Wall Street each and every day.”

In response to Trump’s claim that the case lacked victims, James firmly countered his narrative and emphasized the need for financial fraudsters to be held accountable to ensure fair treatment in the financial markets. She described the magnitude of Trump’s fraud as “staggering” and stressed that it was not a simple mistake or oversight but a massive deception.

James highlighted that if ordinary New Yorkers were to submit false documents to a bank, the government would take swift action, and the same should apply to former presidents.

James also dismissed Trump’s assertion that the case would lead to a mass exodus of business activity from New York. With a nod to positive indicators such as increased tourism and the thriving Wall Street, James reaffirmed the state’s resilience and continued economic vitality.

As Trump faces legal setbacks in multiple cases, such as those filed by columnist E. Jean Carroll and the ongoing investigation into election interference in Georgia, James concluded the interview with a notable observation about the efficacy of women in getting things done.

“Someone once told me if you want something done, give it to a woman,” she observed wryly.