In an unprecedented move, Judge Arthur Engoron issued a limited gag order against Donald Trump, warning the former U.S. President that he could face up to 30 days in jail if he continues to make disparaging comments about court staff.
According to Deadline, this comes amid Trump's ongoing financial fraud trial, where he stands accused alongside two of his children and their companies.
The gag order was prompted by a post Trump made on his Truth Social platform, targeting Allison Greenfield, the judge's principal law clerk.
The post, which has since been deleted, featured a picture of Greenfield with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, labeling her as "Schumer's girlfriend."
Engoron was unequivocal in his warning to Trump, stating that "personal attacks on members of my court staff are unacceptable, not appropriate." The judge also indicated that failure to comply with the gag order could result in "serious sanctions," including fines and further restrictions, in addition to the potential jail time.
The civil fraud case, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, accuses Trump and his family of significantly overvaluing their assets to secure financing from banks.
Last week, Engoron ruled that Trump had committed fraud, stripping him and his family of control over a portion of their New York real estate holdings. The trial is now focused on determining the damages, which could amount to up to $250 million.
This gag order is not the only legal challenge Trump is currently facing. He is also a defendant in four criminal cases and another civil case. Despite these legal entanglements, Trump remains defiant, often using his platform to attack judges, court staff, and other officials. Whether the threat of jail time will deter him remains to be seen.
