New York authorities scrambled to respond to a bomb threat directed at the home of Judge Arthur Engoron, who is presiding over former President Donald Trump's high-profile civil fraud trial in Manhattan. The incident unfolded on Thursday morning, just hours before the scheduled closing arguments in the closely-watched trial. According to an anonymous court source, there were alarming threats of "fertilizer bombs" strategically planted around Justice Engoron's Long Island residence.
The New York Supreme Court Justice, who has been overseeing Trump's civil fraud trial for the past three months, is set to play a pivotal role in the final stages of the legal proceedings. Despite the bomb threat, Al Baker, a spokesman for the state Office of Court Administration, reassured the public that the trial is proceeding as planned. However, in light of the security concern, Engoron will be provided with enhanced security measures to ensure his safety.
Nassau County police became aware of the threat against Judge Engoron at 5:30 a.m., prompting a swift response to secure the area. Authorities did not clear Engoron to leave his home until around 8 a.m., highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The incident adds another layer of tension to an already high-stakes trial that has garnered significant attention, with the motive behind the bomb threat yet to be determined.