A bomb threat was made against the home of New York Judge Arthur Engoron just hours before the closing arguments in the state’s civil fraud trial against former President Donald Trump. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, with police vehicles and a bomb squad being dispatched to Engoron’s home in Long Island. The Nassau County Police are currently investigating the swatting incident.
Throughout the trial, Engoron and his staff have faced numerous attacks from supporters of Trump. In November, Engoron and his clerk, Allison Greenfield, received a flood of threatening, harassing, and anti-Semitic messages. Greenfield stated that these threats were considered serious and credible, adding to the distress and pressure they have experienced.
Swatting attempts have also targeted judges and prosecutors involved in other cases against Trump. Last weekend, a false report of a shooting was made at the home of D.C. Judge Tanka Chutkan, who is presiding over a criminal election interference case. Jack Smith, the special counsel overseeing ongoing cases against Trump, was also targeted on Christmas day.
Despite the bomb threat, closing arguments are expected to proceed as scheduled in New York. Engoron recently rejected Trump’s attempt to personally deliver his closing statement, citing concerns about relevance and attacks on the judge, court staff, and others involved in the trial. In response, Trump launched an attack on Engoron through his social media platform, accusing the judge of bias and unfairness.
As this high-profile trial continues, it is clear that tensions are running high on both sides. The bomb threat against Judge Engoron raises concerns about the safety and security of those involved in the legal proceedings. Authorities will need to take swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the trial.