OPINION | This article contains commentary that reflects the author's opinion.
Judge Arthur Engoron of New York State Supreme Court imposed a $370 million fine on Donald Trump for alleged fraud, despite no evidence of harm or financial loss to anyone.
The judge previously ordered the dissolution of Trump’s businesses in the state, a decision currently pending appeal.
Legal experts criticized the judgment as excessive and unconstitutional, citing violations of the Eighth Amendment’s excessive fines clause.
The Supreme Court’s ruling in Timbs v. Indiana underscores the historical importance of protecting against excessive fines.
The clause “traces it venerable lineage back to at least 1215” and the Magna Carta, the Supreme Court stated.
“Despite Magna Carta, imposition of excessive fines persisted. The 17th century Stuart kings, in particular, were criticized for using large fines to raise revenue, harass their political foes, and indefinitely detain those unable to pay,” they wrote.
“For good reason, the protection against excessive fines has been a constant shield throughout Anglo-American history: Exorbitant tolls undermine other constitutional liberties. Excessive fines can be used, for example, to retaliate or chill the speech of political enemies, as the Stuarts’ critics learned several centuries ago,” the Supreme Court stated.
Critics view the actions of the attorney general and Judge Engoron as politically motivated and call for immediate appellate intervention to restore confidence in the New York justice system.
Other legal actions against Trump by New York prosecutors are under scrutiny for their alleged lack of legal merit, prompting calls for congressional investigation into potential collusion between state officials.
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