Former US President Donald Trump on Monday took the stand to testify in the New York civil fraud case. While speaking in the court, Trump said the financial estimates of many of his properties were inaccurate.
In the $250 million lawsuit, New York Attorney General Letitia James has alleged that Trump, his sons and Trump Organisation executives were engaged in a decade-long scheme in which they used "fraud and misrepresentation" to inflate Trump's net worth in order to get more favourable loan terms.
"They just weren't a very important element in the banks decision-making process, and well explain that as this trial goes along, as this crazy trial goes along," Trump was quoted by Reuters, while he was questioned by the state attorney.
Judge Arthur Engoron has already ruled those estimates to be fraudulent. New York state lawyers argue that they misled lenders and insurers, earning him $100 million and exaggerating his wealth by $2 billion.
Reacting to the allegations, Trump said the case was a politically motivated "witch hunt".
He reiterated on the witness stand and accused legal authorities of paying unduly close attention to his business after he won the 2016 presidential election.
“I'm sure the judge will rule against me because he always rules against me," he said."This is a very unfair trial," he added.
Trump's remarks drew sharp rebuke from Engoron, who warned to cut his testimony short.
"Mr Kise, can you control your client? This is not a political rally. This is a courtroom," Engoron asked Trump's lawyer, Christopher Kise.
The Judge threatened to boot Trump from proceedings. "If you can’t, I will; I will excuse him and draw every negative inference that I can,” he added.
While Kise argued that it was only right for Engoron to hear Trump out. “No, I do not want to hear everything that he has to say,” said Engoron.
“He has a lot to say that has nothing to do with the case or the questions," he added.
Trump’s middle son, Eric Trump testified in the case last week.
