Federal judge threatens Rudolph Giuliani with contempt charge for missing deadline to hand over valuable possessions, including Yankees memorabilia.
In a recent court hearing, a federal judge expressed frustration with Rudy Giuliani for failing to turn over valuable assets to pay off a $148 million judgment. The judgment stems from a defamation lawsuit filed by two former Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, against Giuliani. The former mayor of New York City had falsely accused the women of election fraud without evidence, leading to racist attacks and death threats against them.
During the hearing, Judge Lewis J. Liman questioned Giuliani’s lawyers about the status of valuable items that were supposed to be handed over to begin the payment process. These items include a signed Joe DiMaggio jersey, 26 designer watches, and a vintage Mercedes-Benz. Despite the deadline passing, Giuliani had not surrendered the assets.
The judge set a new deadline for Giuliani to turn over the items, warning of potential civil contempt charges if he fails to comply. Civil contempt could result in severe penalties, including the possibility of jail time. Giuliani’s legal team had argued that the assets should remain with him while the case is under appeal, but the judge rejected this argument.
The plaintiffs’ lawyers have been on a quest to locate Giuliani’s assets, searching properties in upscale neighborhoods like the Upper East Side and Palm Beach, as well as a storage unit in Ronkonkoma, Long Island. The ongoing legal battle highlights the consequences of spreading false information and the importance of accountability for defamation.
In conclusion, the legal saga involving Rudy Giuliani and the defamation lawsuit filed by Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss underscores the significance of upholding the truth and seeking justice for those who have been wronged. The court’s decision to hold Giuliani accountable for his actions sends a strong message about the consequences of spreading misinformation and the importance of respecting the rights and reputations of individuals.
Source: The NY Times
