In a major blow to former President Donald Trump, a New York judge ordered him and his companies to pay $355 million in penalties for a scheme to deceive banks and insurers by inflating his wealth on financial statements. The ruling, delivered by Judge Arthur Engoron, also barred Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years, along with his adult sons, who were ordered to pay $4 million each. The judge described the fraud as “shocking” and criticized Trump's lack of remorse and credibility during the trial. Trump, who plans to appeal, called the case "election interference" and politically motivated. The ruling adds to Trump's legal troubles as he faces criminal charges in four cases and continues his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. The decision also appoints an independent monitor and director of compliance for the Trump Organization, signaling stricter oversight of the company's financial practices. The verdict is expected to have significant implications for Trump's business empire and raises questions about the future leadership of the organization.