An inquiry into The Trump Organization has become a criminal investigation. Charges may be filed, reports say.
Will There Be Criminal Charges?
New York Attorney General Letitia James has been investigating The Trump Organization for about two years but earlier this week James' office said it had informed the organization that the manner of investigation has changed.
"We are now actively investigating The Trump Organization in a criminal capacity, along with the Manhattan district attorney," James' office said in a statement.
Many have asked if former U.S. President Donald Trump and the organization will be charged.
Andrew G. Celli Jr., a former official in the attorney general's office, said it wasn't unusual for civil actions initiated by attorneys' general to uncover evidence alleging criminal violations.
Celli said the turning up of evidence doesn't necessarily mean criminal charges are the main target of James and Manhattan district attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. - who is also running a parallel investigation into Trump's businesses.
What Does Trump Have to Say?
In a 900-word statement about the new inquiry, Trump said James was "in desperate search of a crime."
The Trump statement said the joint investigation by James and Vance's offices was "a continuation of the greatest political Witch Hunt in the history of the U.S."
Trump said earlier efforts by prosecutors "failed" - which is why they have sent the "dirty work" over to the district attorney.
Trump faces six legal actions. James hasn't provided details about why the investigation shifted from civil to criminal.
What Prompted James' Inquiry?
In 2019, Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen testified before the U.S. Congress. At that time, Cohen said Trump inflated the true value of his assets in official documents.
During his testimony, Cohen admitted to tax evasion and violations in campaign finances. The testimony resulted in his disbarment and a sentence of three years.
After Cohen's revelations James began investigating Trump and his businesses. As a result, The Trump Organization agreed to be dissolved.
Cohen tweeted Trump "and associates will be held responsible for their actions." The post was accompanied by a Photoshop picture of Trump behind bars.
As more documents are reviewed by the #NYAG and #NYDA, it appears that the troubles for Donald #Trump will keep on coming! Soon enough, Donald and Associates will be held responsible for their actions. pic.twitter.com/nOvd7Dry81 — Michael Cohen (@MichaelCohen212) May 19, 2021
