The judge’s ruling in Donald J. Trump’s civil fraud case could cost him all his available cash. It also bars the former president from running a business in the state for three years.
Hurting his finances is arguably more effective. Going to jail makes him a martyr to his supporters, and he can appeal a criminal charge until he dies. Taking his money makes him a loser right now.
Also, doesn’t a criminal fraud charge requires a victim, meaning a complainant that can show they have lost money as a result of the defendant’s actions? I’m sure those people exist, but that’s not what this particular trial was about. However, maybe others will come forward now that he has lost this trial.
It’s still an interesting question. Why was this a civil case rather than criminal?
And there’s no great answers. Basically a lot of it comes down to civil being easier to win and a safer bet than criminal proceedings.
https://apnews.com/article/crime-new-york-lawsuits-manhattan-bb0b240218679e38f59b6fe28566272c
Hurting his finances is arguably more effective. Going to jail makes him a martyr to his supporters, and he can appeal a criminal charge until he dies. Taking his money makes him a loser right now.
Also, doesn’t a criminal fraud charge requires a victim, meaning a complainant that can show they have lost money as a result of the defendant’s actions? I’m sure those people exist, but that’s not what this particular trial was about. However, maybe others will come forward now that he has lost this trial.