Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani faces contempt charges and sanctions in a defamation lawsuit brought by Georgia election workers, as his legal troubles deepen over allegations he made concerning the past election.
At a Glance
- Giuliani was found in contempt for not complying with asset information requests related to a $148 million defamation judgment.
- The defamation case involves false claims about Georgia election workers in 2020.
- Giuliani was accused of withholding key assets, including his New York penthouse and sports collectibles.
- The judge has criticized Giuliani for disregarding document requests and providing incomplete responses.
- Penalties for contempt will be determined later, with the potential for additional charges.
Giuliani Held in Contempt Over Asset Disclosure
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani has been found in contempt of court for failing to comply with asset information requests related to a $148 million defamation judgment. The case stems from false claims Giuliani made about two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, following the 2020 presidential election. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman criticized Giuliani for disregarding document requests and providing incomplete responses to the court.
The contempt ruling comes after Giuliani admitted to withholding materials, citing overly broad requests and ongoing legal case strains. His attorney argues against the potential seizure of Giuliani’s Palm Beach condominium, claiming it is his primary residence and should be protected from the judgment. However, Judge Liman said that Giuliani failed to provide sufficient evidence to support this claim.
BREAKING: Judge finds Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court for failing to turn over assets to Georgia election workers. https://t.co/4JFDbUpVGm
— The Associated Press (@AP) January 6, 2025
Asset Disclosure and Legal Challenges
Giuliani has surrendered some property, including a Mercedes-Benz and his Manhattan apartment, but has not provided the necessary paperwork to monetize those assets. The court is particularly interested in determining whether Giuliani’s Palm Beach condominium is a permanent residence or a vacation home, as this distinction could affect its protection from seizure.
“Not a single dollar” has been paid by Giuliani towards the $148 million judgment, according to lawyers for Freeman and Moss, who also alleged there was a “consistent pattern of willful defiance” in Giuliani’s actions.
The judge has barred Giuliani from using emails or texts to prove his Florida residency and criticized him for providing only a limited number of documents and no phone records. This lack of cooperation has led to increased scrutiny of Giuliani’s financial situation and assets.
Legal and Political Implications
Giuliani and his spokesperson have criticized the justice system, claiming it has become a “mockery.” His attorney, Joseph Cammarata, went further, describing the proceedings as politically motivated.
The legal battles facing Giuliani extend beyond this contempt ruling. He is scheduled for another contempt hearing in Washington on January 10 for allegedly repeating defamatory statements. Additionally, a trial to decide the fate of Giuliani’s Florida condominium and World Series rings is set for January 16.
As the legal proceedings continue, Giuliani’s lawyers maintain hope that he will eventually regain custody of his personal items on appeal. However, the mounting legal challenges and financial obligations pose significant hurdles for the former mayor and presidential attorney.
Sources
- Rudy Giuliani held in contempt for withholding assets from Georgia election workers
- Rudy Giuliani held in contempt and hit with sanctions for defying court orders in defamation case
- Rudy Giuliani is in contempt of court in $148 million defamation case
