The verdict read as Trump organization found guilty on all count of criminal tax fraud. But the former President does not plan to turn down a fight. He already vowed to file an appeal.
The organization obtained multiple charges of criminal tax fraud. As well as falsifying business records connected to a 15-year scheme to defraud tax authorities. Simply by failing to report and pay taxes on compensation for top executives.
However, in a statement titled “Manhattan Witch Hunt!” and posted to Truth Social a short time later, the former president said that he was “disappointed” by the verdict, while maintaining that the organization was the victim of a “political witch hunt.”
Donald Trump and his family were not charged in this case, but the former president was mentioned repeatedly during the trial by prosecutors about his connection to the benefits doled out to certain executives, including company-funded apartments, car leases and personal expenses.
Furthermore, prosecutors said that he “knew exactly what was going on” and had taken part in actions that were “explicitly sanctioning tax fraud,” according to the Associated Press. The case focused on the organization’s scheme to defraud tax authorities. Revealing they helped top executives avoid paying taxes on compensation that included perks like luxury cars and apartments.
The Trump Organization could face a maximum of $1.61 million in fines when sentenced in mid-January.
The company is not at risk of being dismantled. Simply because there is no mechanism under New York law that would dissolve the company. However, a felony conviction could impact its ability to do business or obtain loans or contracts.
“Disappointed with the verdict in Manhattan, but will appeal,” Trump said. “This case was about Allen Weisselberg committing tax fraud on his personal tax returns, etc., with he and every witness repeatedly testifying that President Trump and the Trump Family knew nothing about his actions, which he admits were done solely for his own benefit, and with no benefit to the two companies.”
