Fraud

New York Civil Fraud Case
In September 2022, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil lawsuit against Trump, his adult children, and the Trump Organization, alleging they inflated asset values to secure favorable loans and insurance terms. In February 2024, Judge Arthur Engoron ruled Trump liable for fraud, imposing a $354.9 million penalty plus $98.6 million in interest, totaling $453.5 million. Trump posted a $175 million bond in April 2024, and appeals are ongoing.
Trump Organization Tax Fraud Conviction
In December 2022, the Trump Organization was convicted on 17 counts of tax fraud and related crimes for a scheme that provided executives with off-the-books compensation. The company was fined $1.6 million. Former CFO Allen Weisselberg pleaded guilty to 15 felonies and served a five-month jail sentence.
“We Build the Wall” Campaign Fraud
In February 2025, Steve Bannon, a former Trump adviser, pleaded guilty to defrauding donors in the “We Build the Wall” fundraising campaign. He admitted to misusing funds and was sentenced to a three-year conditional discharge, avoiding jail time. As part of the plea deal, Bannon is barred from charity work and fundraising in New York.
Trump University Fraud Settlement
Trump University faced multiple lawsuits alleging it misled students with false promises of real estate education. In November 2016, Trump agreed to a $25 million settlement without admitting wrongdoing. The settlement was finalized in 2018, providing restitution to affected students.
Trump Foundation Misuse of Funds
In 2018, the New York Attorney General sued the Donald J. Trump Foundation for misusing charitable funds for personal and political purposes. Trump admitted to misusing funds, and the foundation was dissolved under judicial supervision. He paid $2 million in damages to various charities.
These cases highlight ongoing legal challenges related to Trump’s business practices and charitable activities. While some cases have concluded with settlements or convictions, others remain under appeal or continued scrutiny.