In New York, a criminal trial has begun in the case of tax evasion by the Trump Organization, a company of former US President Donald Trump. According to the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, for 15 years, the company, which is now run by Trump's two adult sons – Donald Jr. and Eric Trump – did not take into account part of the payments and bonuses to management and, accordingly, did not pay taxes.
Neither Donald Trump nor members of his family are yet accused, the BBC notes .
Meanwhile, one of the defendants, former Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg, has already pleaded guilty to 15 counts of tax fraud and is expected to testify against the company as part of a plea agreement.
This is one of three New York court cases involving Trump and his company.
The indictment includes conspiracy to commit fraud, criminal tax fraud and falsification of business records. If the company is found guilty, it could face a fine of more than $1.5 million, it may also face difficulties in obtaining loans and financing, reports France24.
Although Trump is not named in the case, he called the investigation into his business empire a "witch hunt" amid the upcoming November 8 midterm congressional elections.