Trump says he took fifth in interrogation in New York fraud probe

Former President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he refused to answer questions from investigators in the New York Attorney General's Office, citing his amendment to self-incrimination related to a long-standing civil fraud investigation into his business. He cited Article 5 rights as the reason.

Trump showed up for depositions in New York Wednesday morning. After arriving for questioning, Trump claimed in a statement posted on social networks that the investigation into James was politically motivated, calling it a "compelling and selfish fishing expedition." called.

"Therefore, on the advice of my attorney and for all the reasons set forth above, I have refused to answer questions concerning the rights and privileges accorded to all citizens under the United States Constitution.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James filed testimony for more than half a year as Trump and his two children, Donald Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump. After fighting subpoenas through three courts in New York, they were ultimately ordered to take depositions,and earlier this month Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump were interrogated.

Any organization seeking "testimony and documents related to an investigation into the valuation of properties owned or controlled by Donald J. Trump or President Trump," or any matter the Attorney General deems relevant.

Attorneys from James' firm said in court that their investigation found Trump and his company using "fraudulent and misleading financial statements" to extend loans while inflating property valuations. He said he sought insurance coverage and collected evidence that he devalued the property. Value to reduce tax burden.

Trump and his company have repeatedly denied all allegations of wrongdoing.

James' office attorneys indicated at multiple court hearings this spring and summer that the investigation was nearing conclusion.

Wednesday's deposition of the former president came amid mounting legal hazards. On Monday, the FBI broke into his home in Mar-a-Lago, Fla., and tookboxes containing documents as part of an investigation into Trump's handling of classified material. A federal grand jury investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riots is investigating communications between Trump's closest allies, and a Georgia judge said Tuesday ordered Mr. Trump's former personal attorney, Mr. Rudy Giuliani, to appear before a special grand jury there. 

Trump has denied any wrongdoing in each of these matters.