Breaking: New York Appeals Court Tosses Trump’s $500M+ Civil Fraud Penalty
In a stunning victory for President Donald Trump, a New York appeals court on August 21, 2025, threw out the massive $527 million civil fraud penalty imposed against him, deeming it “excessive.” The ruling, delivered by the Appellate Division in Manhattan, marks a major setback for New York Attorney General Letitia James, who had accused Trump, his family, and the Trump Organization of inflating asset values to secure favorable loans and insurance deals.
He released this on Truth Social! “All I do is win!”
The decision was divided: a 3-2 vote eliminated the fine entirely, with the majority arguing it violated constitutional protections against disproportionate punishments. However, the court upheld key findings from the lower court trial, confirming that Trump had engaged in fraudulent practices by exaggerating his net worth by billions. One dissenting judge went further, asserting the entire case should have been dismissed for lack of evidence of harm, calling it a “victimless” dispute.
Trump and his allies hailed the outcome as vindication against what they termed a “witch hunt” and “election interference.” Donald Trump Jr. posted on X: “Massive Win!!! … even a left leaning NY appeals court agrees! NO MORE LAWFARE!” Critics, including James’ office, expressed disappointment, vowing to explore further appeals while emphasizing the upheld fraud rulings.
This development relieves Trump of a financial burden that had grown to over $515 million with interest, amid his ongoing legal battles. It underscores tensions in New York’s judiciary, often perceived as liberal, yet delivering a rebuke to aggressive prosecution tactics. The case, stemming from a 2018 investigation, highlights broader debates over accountability for financial misconduct by high-profile figures.
🚨 BREAKING – MASSIVE TRUMP VICTORY: A New York Appeals Court has just THROWN OUT the $364 MILLION verdict against President Trump in the case brought by Letitia James
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) August 21, 2025
Another L for Big Tish! 🤣
It’s amazing how the tables have turned! 😂 pic.twitter.com/gmME1iU17C
