New York Attorney General Letitia James has taken a firm stance, vowing to pursue the seizure of former President Donald Trump's properties through legal means if he fails to comply with a $363 million fine resulting from a civil fraud case.

The fine, levied against Trump, his sons, and the Trump Organization, stemmed from allegations of fraud in which they were accused of inflating property values to obtain favorable financing and insurance terms.

AG Letitia James says she will seek to seize Trump's buildings if he doesn't pay $363 million fine from fraud case https://t.co/xNzL4MqEwF pic.twitter.com/2Dn4LQngf9

— TheBlaze (@theblaze) February 21, 2024

The situation

James, who spearheaded the civil lawsuit, expressed confidence in the court's ruling, asserting that it would withstand any potential appeals launched by the Trump family.

"If he does not possess the necessary funds to meet the judgment, then we will pursue enforcement mechanisms in court, including seeking asset seizure by judicial order," James affirmed in an interview with ABC News.

She underscored Trump's accountability for the substantial fine, stating unequivocally, "How he chooses to satisfy the judgment is not my concern. He is legally obligated to fulfill the financial obligations imposed."

The response

In response to Trump's assertions that the ruling lacked merit due to the absence of identifiable victims, James vehemently disagreed, arguing that financial fraud has far-reaching consequences and cannot be considered victimless.

She emphasized the gravity of the fraud perpetrated by Trump and rejected claims of innocence as unfounded.

Trump's criticism has been directed at New York State Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron and James herself, whom he has accused of spearheading a politically motivated "witch hunt" against him.

What will happen?

He has publicly derided James, labeling her a "slob" and insinuating collusion with the White House.

James remained resolute in her commitment to ensuring compliance with the court's judgment, emphasizing that the interests of New Yorkers must be safeguarded.

"Financial frauds are not victimless crimes. He engaged in this massive amount of fraud. It wasn't just a simple mistake, a slight oversight, the variations are wildly exaggerated, and the extent of the fraud was staggering," James argued.

"If average New Yorkers went into a bank and submitted false documents, the government would throw the book at them, and the same should be true for former presidents."

"We are dedicated to ensuring that the judgment is satisfied for the benefit of New Yorkers," James asserted, signaling her unwavering determination to uphold the integrity of the legal process and hold accountable those found in violation of the law.