In a scathing critique, legal analyst Jonathan Turley lambasted the perceived lack of equity in the New York civil fraud case against former President Trump, particularly in light of the judge's denial of the request to delay enforcement of the staggering $355 million penalty.

Turley highlighted what he saw as a glaring oversight in Judge Arthur Engoron's assertion that Trump had "failed to explain" the need for a delay.

Trump judge's 'gross unfairness' on display in NY civil fraud case, Jonathan Turley says https://t.co/ctX2DVKvcw #FoxNews

— Bo Snerdley (@BoSnerdley) February 23, 2024

The concerns

Turley found Judge Engoron's reasoning puzzling, suggesting that the rationale for a delay was self-evident given the unprecedented magnitude of the penalty.

He argued that the application of the law in this context was novel and warranted careful consideration. Moreover, Turley raised concerns about the conduct of Attorney General Letitia James, insinuating that individuals like her, whose backgrounds were predominantly political, were now exercising undue influence over assets.

"He just imposed a $355 million judgment with a law that has never been used in this way. That's the reason, and it's rather obvious. But you also have people like [Attorney General Letitia] James, who have never built a thing other than their political careers, who are now treating these buildings as if they're theirs," Turley stated.

Clear bias

He underscored the importance of impartiality in judicial proceedings, expressing apprehension over what he perceived as a lack thereof in this case.

Trump's legal team had sought a 30-day postponement of the enforcement of the payment to ensure a smooth post-judgment process.

Judge Engoron rejected this request, contending that the defendants had not adequately substantiated the need for such a delay.

Engoron's email

In an email to the defendants, Judge Engoron conveyed his confidence in the Appellate Division's ability to safeguard their appellate rights.

This communication came in the wake of a recent court ruling that barred Trump from engaging in business activities in New York for three years.

The ruling also held him financially liable for the substantial sum of $355 million in damages in connection with the civil fraud case brought by Attorney General Letitia James against him, his family, and the Trump Organization.

In response to the hefty judgment, Attorney General James asserted her readiness to take swift action to seize Trump's assets should he fail to meet the financial obligations arising from the civil fraud case as he seeks election as president in Novemeber.