A New York appeals court has overturned a penalty of more than $500 million against US President Donald Trump. The case was related to civil fraud charges. Trump called the ruling a “total victory” on his Truth Social platform.
The verdict came from a five-judge panel of the Appellate Division of the New York Supreme Court. In a 323-page judgment, the court ruled that the fine was “excessive.” It also said the penalty violated the Eighth Amendment of the US Constitution, which prohibits extreme punishments.
The legal battle began in 2022. New York Attorney General Letitia James accused Trump of inflating property values and assets. She argued that the Trump Organization used those figures to secure loans and insurance benefits.
In February 2024, a trial court agreed with the Attorney General. It ordered Trump to pay more than $500 million. His sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, were also directed to pay fines.
Trump welcomed the reversal. He said the earlier judgment was “unlawful and disgraceful.” He added that it was damaging businesses across New York.
The Wall Street Journal noted that this decision is a major legal relief for Trump. It also stressed the political impact of the case.
