Five hours after receiving threats of a “fertilizer bomb” at his Long Island home, Judge Arthur Engoron presided over Donald Trump’s New York civil fraud trial without mentioning the incident to the courtroom.
Trump, in attendance, observed the proceedings with a scornful expression.
The judge humorously quipped, “Are we gonna be shot or something?” as news photographers were escorted in for pictures.
Despite the bomb threat, the judge initiated closing arguments, congratulating lawyers and giving Trump’s lead attorney, Christopher Kise, the floor.
Trump, denied the chance for a personal statement, complained outside the courtroom about Attorney General Letitia James pursuing the case for five years.
James alleges Trump fraudulently inflated his net worth, while Trump’s defense argues a political agenda.
Closing arguments were expected to take the day, with the judge set to render a verdict by month-end, determining penalties and potential conspiracy charges.
