A federal judge in New York has dismissed Rudy Giuliani's bankruptcy case.
The dismissal of the case allows Ruby Freeman, Shaye Moss, and other of Giuliani's creditors to resume legal action to collect their money from the former attorney to Donald Trump, as the Washington Examiner reports.
U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Sean Lane's decision comes seven months after Giuliani, the former mayor of New York City and attorney, initiated bankruptcy proceedings. Giuliani had sought to avoid a $148 million payment stemming from a defamation lawsuit.
Freeman and Moss, election workers wrongfully accused by Giuliani of manipulating the 2020 presidential election results, are at the center of the defamation case. Judge Lane pointed out that Giuliani was misusing the bankruptcy process to delay settling the claim.
This ruling allows all lawsuits against Giuliani to proceed, ending their temporary suspension due to the bankruptcy case. The unraveling legal defenses come with financial pressures as Giuliani faces additional defamation suits and a sexual harassment claim. Significantly, the judge criticized Giuliani for his financial disclosure failures. He provided incomplete statements, missed deadlines, and appeared to hide assets.
When Rudy Giuliani listed his debts, they totaled $153 million, covering legal fees and taxes. Yet, his disclosures revealed less than $100,000 in available funds by the end of May.
Giuliani did not disclose his net worth or business financial information, causing suspicion among creditors' lawyers. Subpoenas were issued to associates like Mike Lindell, the CEO of My Pillow, to get a clearer picture of Giuliani’s assets.
Philip C. Dublin, representing the creditors, provided a scathing commentary. “Since day one, Giuliani has regarded this case and the bankruptcy process as a joke, hiding behind the facade of an elderly, doddering man who cannot even remember the address for his second multimillion dollar home and claims impending homelessness if he must sell that second multimillion dollar home,” he remarked.
This ruling reopens the door for Freeman, Moss, and other creditors to pursue their claims actively. The defamation suit has brought significant attention to false election claims made by figures close to former President Donald Trump.
Moreover, Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic have also filed defamation lawsuits against Giuliani. These cases are part of a larger legal reckoning surrounding baseless allegations about the 2020 election.
Adding to the financial and legal pressures, a sexual harassment claim by Nicole Dunphy further complicates Giuliani's situation. The confluence of these lawsuits presents a considerable challenge ahead for him. Since the dismissal, all pending lawsuits against Giuliani are now resumed. This legal momentum shifts attention back to the original defamation claims and additional pending litigation.
The ruling undermines Giuliani’s financial defense tactics, emphasizing the judiciary's stance against misuse of legal processes to delay debt payments. With this judgment, creditors are poised to advance their collection efforts.
Giuliani finds himself grappling with significant debts and ongoing court battles. Despite the bankruptcy attempt, his financial disclosure failures paint a grim picture of his economic standing. The legal unraveling continues as these renewed lawsuits and financial investigations proceed. Giuliani’s strategy and assets will now undergo intensified scrutiny by creditors and courts alike.
The United States and Germany have successfully intercepted a Russian plan to assassinate Armin Papperger, the leader of Rheinmetall, a major weapons supplier to Ukraine.
The plot, upended by the White House and foreign partners, was a part of a larger Russian agenda targeting European defense firms aiding Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, as the New York Post reports.
Rheinmetall supplies critical 155mm artillery shells to Ukrainian forces. The conspiracy to kill Papperger, among other executives of European defense companies, was uncovered earlier this year, indicating an advanced stage of planning.
American intelligence agencies discovered the assassination plans and promptly informed their German counterparts. German authorities moved swiftly to ensure the safety of Papperger and prevented the attack from materializing.
Rheinmetall is expanding its footprint in Ukraine, with an existing plant already operational and another armored vehicle factory set to launch imminently. The company aims to establish four production plants across Ukraine.
Russia's efforts to sabotage the delivery of weapons to Ukraine have been ongoing for over six months. These acts of sabotage involve hiring local amateurs for arson attacks on warehouses and vandalizing infrastructure related to arms supplies aiding Ukraine.
“We’re seeing sabotage, we’re seeing assassination plots, we’re seeing arson. We’re seeing things that have a cost in human lives,” a senior NATO official remarked during the 75th NATO summit in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, the same official elaborated, stating, “I believe very much that we’re seeing a campaign of covert sabotage activities from Russia that have strategic consequences.”
Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council, emphasized the severity of Russia’s intensifying subversive activities. “Russia’s intensifying campaign of subversion is something that we are taking extremely seriously and have been intently focused on over the past few months,” she stated.
Watson also noted that the United States is actively collaborating with NATO allies to identify and counter these activities. “The United States has been discussing this issue with our NATO allies, and we are actively working together to expose and disrupt these activities,” she emphasized. She also added, “We have also been clear that Russia’s actions will not deter allies from continuing to support Ukraine.”
This assassination plot against Papperger underscores the ongoing global tension surrounding the support for Ukraine's defense efforts against Russian aggression. The thwarted plan illustrates the lengths to which Russia is willing to go to disrupt the supply of arms to Ukraine.
The ramifications of this thwarted assassination attempt extend beyond the immediate safety of executives like Papperger. It signifies a broader threat to European defense companies engaged in supporting Ukraine’s military capabilities.
With its escalating subversive tactics, Russia continues to challenge the solidarity of NATO and its supporters. However, the swift action taken by US and German authorities highlights their commitment to safeguarding key figures essential to the defense sector.
As Rheinmetall continues to solidify its operations in Ukraine, the vigilance of international intelligence and defense agencies remains critical. The cooperation between the US and Germany in preventing this assassination marks a triumph in the ongoing effort to protect strategic assets amid geopolitical conflicts.
Queens of the Stone Age has halted their European tour as frontman Josh Homme returns to the U.S. for emergency surgery. This decision necessitates the cancellation of multiple upcoming shows across Europe.
According to the LA Times, the band announced Tuesday that the health of their lead singer, Josh Homme, required immediate surgical intervention, resulting in the cancellation of eight scheduled performances.
Homme, who was previously diagnosed with cancer in 2022 and had undergone surgery at that time, has undergone yet another critical medical procedure. It remains unclear whether this recent surgery is connected to his past illness.
The tour cancellation has impacted several major concerts and festivals. Festivals slated in France and Slovakia this week have been scrapped. Additionally, audiences in Berlin, Austria, Romania, Croatia, and Greece will also miss performances that were eagerly anticipated by fans.
Every effort was made to push through and play for you, but it is no longer an option to continue. Queens are gutted we aren't able to play for you. We apologize for any inconvenience and share in your frustration and disappointment.
Ticket holders are advised to seek further information from festival websites or to expect direct communication from their points of purchase. The band previously canceled their appearance at Italy's AMA Festival last Friday due to illness, further compounding the disappointment for fans.
As of Wednesday, the band's August European dates and North American tour dates scheduled through November remain listed on their official website. However, fans continue to grow concerned as they await updates on whether these shows will proceed as planned.
While a spokesperson for the band has chosen not to comment further on the situation, the lack of clarity leaves fans anxious about the future of the tour and Homme’s health. This recent series of cancellations has ripple effect on concertgoers and festival organizers alike.
Josh Homme, a native of Palm Desert, California, initially gained recognition in the music industry with the pioneering stoner-metal band Kyuss in the mid-1990s. Queens of the Stone Age's ascension began with the release of their 2001 album "Rated R," marking the band’s breakthrough.
Throughout his illustrious career, Homme has not only been a central figure in Queens of the Stone Age but has also established successful collaborations with other prominent musical acts like Eagles of Death Metal and Them Crooked Vultures. Additionally, Homme has worked as a producer for legendary artists, including Iggy Pop and Arctic Monkeys.
Last summer, Queens of the Stone Age released their latest album, "In Times New Roman...," which sheds light on Homme’s personal tumultuous experiences. The album appears to reflect the myriad of losses and tribulations Homme has faced, including the painful losses of close friends Taylor Hawkins and Mark Lanegan.
Added to these hardships, Homme has been involved in a contentious custody battle over his three children with his ex-wife, Brody Dalle. These stresses have undeniably added to the weight on the frontman’s shoulders as he navigates his personal and professional life.
Queens of the Stone Age has paused their tour due to Josh Homme's health crisis, leading to the cancellation of eight shows. Fans await further updates as Homme undergoes emergency surgery, compounded by his past cancer diagnosis. Despite personal and professional challenges, including a custody battle and the loss of close friends, the band remains committed to their fans and the resumption of their tour in due course.
Fresh footage from Santa Fe police officer Nicholas Lefleur's bodycam shows Alec Baldwin immediately following the tragic "Rust" set shooting.
As reported by Irish Star, the recently released bodycam video offers a new perspective on the aftermath of the tragic shooting that took the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film "Rust." In this footage, Alec Baldwin can be seen just moments after the fatal incident, shedding light on his initial reactions and the immediate interventions by law enforcement.
The footage is notably from the bodycam worn by Santa Fe police officer Nicholas Lefleur. As the first witness called by the prosecution during Wednesday's court session, Officer Lefleur provided a detailed account of his arrival at the scene, including his interactions with Baldwin and other emergency responders.
In his testimony, Lefleur narrated approaching Baldwin outside the church where the incident transpired. His primary duty was to manage and secure Baldwin away from other witnesses to safeguard the authenticity of their narratives.
"Essentially, he's detained, not free to leave, so I'm there with him," Lefleur noted in his testimony. He indicated telling Baldwin to cease talking and to stay separate from others to prevent any influence on their accounts.
Lefleur's account in court revealed some critical lapses in managing the scene. He acknowledged not intervening in conversations between the witnesses and Baldwin during those early chaotic moments. This admission was crucial as it played into the defense's strategy to suggest possible mishandling of the situation right after the shooting.
Additionally, Lefleur admitted to telling Baldwin, "You need to sit there and not talk to anybody," aiming to keep gathered testimonies uncontaminated. He maintained that keeping everyone present during the shooting in one identifiable area was his tactical goal.
Despite these measures, Lefleur conceded making mistakes at the scene, an acknowledgment seized upon by Baldwin's legal team during the proceedings.
Adding a layer of complexity to the case, Baldwin has repeatedly stated he did not pull the trigger, a point he reiterated during his interactions with Lefleur. "I was holding the gun, yeah," Baldwin confessed but firmly denied causing the discharge.
However, forensic experts Lucien and Michael Haag refuted this claim in their findings. Their analysis concluded that the weapon could not fire without the trigger being activated.
The forensic report stated, "This fatal incident was the consequence of the hammer being manually retracted to its fully rearward and cocked position followed, at some point, by the pull or rearward depression of the trigger." This report directly challenges Baldwin's repeated assertions of not pulling the trigger.
The investigation into the shooting remains highly debated. Officer Lefleur's testimony and bodycam footage offer crucial insights but also raise questions about procedural adherence. Baldwin's claim of merely holding the firearm contrasts with forensic findings that indicate the trigger had to be pulled or depressed for the gun to discharge, forming the core of the ongoing legal and forensic examinations.
To sum it up, the newly released bodycam footage, coupled with Officer Nicholas Lefleur's detailed testimony, offers a comprehensive look at the immediate aftermath of the "Rust" set shooting, highlighting Baldwin's initial response and the actions of the first responders. Despite Baldwin’s denial of pulling the trigger, forensic reports suggest otherwise, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle.
Newsweek reported that U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon has paused multiple deadlines in former President Donald Trump's classified documents case, causing significant concern among legal analysts.
This decision follows Trump's request for further discussions on presidential immunity and could notably delay the trial, impacting presidential power and accountability.
Former President Donald Trump is facing a Department of Justice indictment for allegedly retaining classified materials after leaving office in January 2021 and obstructing federal efforts to retrieve them. Trump has pleaded not guilty and firmly asserts his innocence.
On Saturday, Judge Aileen Cannon, who Trump appointed, issued a paperless order halting several key deadlines in the case. The order comes in response to a request from Trump's legal team for further deliberation on presidential immunity, which follows a recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court.
In a ruling by Chief Justice John Roberts, the Supreme Court determined that Trump is entitled to presumptive immunity from prosecution for all "official acts" carried out while in office. This ruling has expansive implications, and Cannon's decision now affects deadlines related to expert information sharing, reciprocal discovery, and submission procedures for classified documents.
Both legal teams have been given two weeks to present arguments on the necessity of further immunity discussions. Special counsel Jack Smith has expressed concerns about the trial's delay, emphasizing the national security risks posed by the classified nature of the documents involved.
Legal analyst Glenn Kirschner has been vocal about Judge Cannon's actions. He described the situation as "putting the entire case 'in reverse.'" Kirschner noted that Judge Cannon has yet to act on a motion filed in May by Special counsel Jack Smith, which requested a modification of Trump’s release conditions to prevent him from making statements that endanger law enforcement.
Conversely, Cannon quickly responded within 24 hours to Trump's attorneys, entering an order that Kirschner interprets as regressive to the case's progress.
Prosecutors have also sought a gag order on Trump, alleging his false claims about the FBI's instructions to use lethal force during the Mar-a-Lago raid in August 2022. The FBI has clarified that the "deadly force" language is standard protocol in search warrant requests.
As the debate continues, Newsweek has contacted the DOJ and Trump's office for further comments. Trump's legal team perceives the pause as a victory for addressing immunity issues.
Kirschner raised concerns about the potential long-term implications of the Supreme Court's ruling, which he believes grants presidents "monarch-like" power, allowing them to act with impunity and immunity. The case thus poses critical questions about the balance between ensuring a fair trial and mitigating national security threats.
He emphasized that the Department of Justice is in a challenging position. He rhetorically questioned what the DOJ could do to dismiss the case, suggesting that Trump aims to regain presidential power to utilize his broad immunity.
In summary, Judge Aileen Cannon has introduced significant delays in the classified documents case against former President Donald Trump. The Supreme Court's recent ruling on presidential immunity has major implications for the case and American presidential power. Legal analysts like Glenn Kirschner are critical of these developments, citing potential risks to national security and fairness in the legal system.
Alex Jones, a far-right podcaster known for his conspiracy theories, has been sharply criticized following a livestream he hosted called "Assassinate Biden."
According to Raw Story, the show's title prompted widespread demands for an investigation and fueled a significant public uproar. The livestream prompted vigorous activity on social media, with users reporting the incident to authorities, and ignited a fierce debate about the limits of free speech and the role of content moderation online.
Alex Jones, well-known for his controversial opinions and conspiracy theories, hosted the livestream, which drew immediate ire and concern across various platforms. The provocative title led many to question the intent behind such a statement and the potential consequences of broadcasting it.
Among those raising alarms was independent multimedia journalist David Leavitt, who reported the stream on X, formerly known as Twitter. Leavitt tagged the Secret Service and X's safety team, amplifying calls for official scrutiny.
Leavitt, whose works have appeared in CBS, AXS, Yahoo, and Examiner, emphasized how the platform should respond. "If you were to replace the word 'Biden' with 'Elon,' how fast would your account be banned from Twitter?" he questioned.
The incident saw extensive engagement from social media users, further highlighting the role these platforms play in identifying and reporting potential threats.
A user named @eortner voiced concerns by questioning why Jones' account remained active, tagging Elon Musk and citing terrorism laws.
Another account, @MayoIsSpicyy, tagged the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a heightened call for attention. The collective outcry underscored a heightened vigilance among users toward potentially dangerous rhetoric.
An account named "WTFGOP" also flagged the stream to the Secret Service, reinforcing the urgency many felt regarding the broadcast. The account suggested an investigation was necessary, given the nature of the content.
Public reactions were swift and multifaceted, reflecting a range of opinions on Jones' actions and their implications. @GOPJesusUSA predicted that Jones would soon face an inquiry from the Secret Service while mentioning Jones' claim that the title was a joke.
The issue of potential misinterpretation was also raised. User @jjacobs8438 pointed out that the title might be misleading, suggesting that the full title was "Will the Deep State Assassinate Biden If He Refuses To Leave?"
This perspective added another layer to the debate, as it touched upon the importance of context in judging the severity of the broadcast’s title.
This controversy underscores ongoing debates about free speech, platform responsibilities, and acceptable online discourse. Jones' actions and the public’s reaction reveal the tension between free expression and public safety. The broader implications will likely influence future content moderation discussions as platforms navigate the balance between preventing harm and preserving freedoms.
As reported by Times of India, Marla Maples, ex-wife of former US President Donald Trump, has expressed her willingness to support and potentially serve as his running mate in his 2024 presidential campaign.
Maples, who recently marked her 60th birthday, shared her readiness to assist Trump in his pursuit of a second term in an interview with The Evening Standard. This was her first media engagement in nearly a decade. She asserted that the entire Trump family is united in support of his bid for the presidency.
The former First Lady expressed her belief in Trump's innocence amid his ongoing legal battles, which include a lawsuit by Jean E. Carroll and the Manhattan hush money trial. She criticized the media's focus on Trump's scandals, stressing the need to prioritize critical national concerns such as public safety.
"I'm ready. I am available if needed and I'm not sitting back anymore," Maples declared. Her commitment to playing an active role in Trump's campaign is clear, with sources hinting that she may be considered for the vice presidential position.
Trump's announcement regarding his choice of vice presidential candidate is anticipated in the coming week. As the former president navigates the legal system, Maples stands firmly by his side, ready to support him in any capacity necessary.
Maples and Trump began their relationship at a 1985 charity event and later married in 1993. Despite separating in May 1997 and finalizing their divorce in 1999, Maples has maintained a forgiving stance towards Trump, focusing on their shared history and mutual respect.
"I do know my daughter's father well enough to know that he's never had to push himself on another person. He's always had women throw themselves on him instead," Maples said, defending Trump against allegations. She remains convinced that he has committed no crime, stating, "I don't believe there was a crime done."
Maples previously advised Trump against a presidential run in the 1990s, but by 2022, the two appeared amicable at their daughter Tiffany Trump's wedding. This signifies a continued underlying connection despite past marital challenges.
Reflecting on her potential role in the upcoming campaign, Maples remarked, "Someone would have to ask my ex-husband about that." She expressed her openness to serve in whatever capacity might be needed, saying, "I'm open. I'm open to whatever way that I can serve. Right now everyone [in the Trump family] is just seeing how we can help."
The Trump family appears unified in their dedication to supporting Donald Trump's 2024 run. Marla Maples' candid remarks underscore her unwavering belief in his political beliefs and her desire to contribute meaningfully to his campaign.
The looming question of who Trump will select as his running mate has prompted much speculation. Maples' openness to the role adds an interesting dynamic to the unfolding political scene. As the announcement draws nearer, the Trump camp remains tight-lipped about the final decision.
In conclusion, Marla Maples has stepped forward to support Donald Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, potentially offering to serve as his vice-presidential running mate. Despite Trump's legal entanglements, Maples focuses on broader national issues, criticizes the media's emphasis on scandals, and highlights the Trump family's solidarity.
As Maples asserts, she is "ready" and "available" to assist in any required capacity, emphasizing her belief in Trump's innocence and the importance of moving past the legal distractions to address the country's pressing challenges.
NBC News reported that several of President Joe Biden's closest allies believe he has no realistic chance of winning the upcoming election.
Despite campaign struggles and dropping support, Biden remains determined to pursue a second term.
President Joe Biden’s bid for re-election is increasingly seen as futile among his closest allies and campaign team. A consensus is emerging within his campaign and the broader Democratic base that Biden should reconsider his campaign.
In late June, Biden suffered a significant setback during a debate, igniting further anxiety among supporters. Efforts to stabilize the situation included meetings between Biden aides and Democratic senators and a news briefing.
Due to cognitive concerns, inadequate fundraising, and plummeting poll numbers, many top campaign figures and advisers now doubt Biden’s ability to win.
Among the growing internal dissent, there have been calls to elevate Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. According to various insiders, Harris could potentially present a stronger opposition to former President Donald Trump.
Biden campaign official TJ Ducklo strongly denies any notions of the campaign being at a critical failure point. He insists, “This team stands with the president.” Campaign Chair Jen O’Malley Dillon and Manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez expressed their belief in Biden’s ability to secure key states, describing the recent setbacks as manageable hurdles.
Although Biden's support appears fragile, internal and public polling reflects a close race in pivotal states. Recent polls revealed Biden trailing in Wisconsin, emphasizing the campaign’s fundraising issues compared to Trump’s growing support.
A campaign strategist highlighted the dire situation by noting, “We're all waiting around for Joe Biden to f--- up again.” Many insiders are increasingly concerned about the trickle-down effects of Biden’s weak performance in other Democratic races.
Private discussions within the Biden campaign have begun assessing Harris’s viability in comparison to Trump. Concurrently, Trump has bolstered his attacks against Harris in his rallies.
Biden's decision-making process appears to be highly influenced by his family and a handful of longstanding advisors. This insular approach has fueled dissatisfaction among some prominent Democratic figures who wish for Biden to bow out for the sake of party unity.
One anonymous Democratic lawmaker confided that while he wouldn't publicly denounce Biden, he believes stepping down would be the best move for both Biden and the country. He warned that Biden’s possible defeat could damage his legacy irrevocably and significantly harm down-ballot Democrats.
The sentiment among President Joe Biden's closest allies and campaign officials is that his chances of re-election are slim to none. While efforts to recover from a recent debate debacle and stabilize the campaign continue, doubts about Biden’s ability to secure victory persist. There is a growing call within the Democratic ranks to consider Vice President Kamala Harris as a stronger candidate. Insiders fear that Biden’s floundering campaign might not only affect his standing but also impact other Democratic candidates negatively.
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted on Thursday against the confirmation of Sarah Netburn to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.
According to Daily Caller, the decision followed heated debates regarding Netburn's recommendation to transfer a male inmate identifying as a woman to a female prison.
The committee reached a vote of 10-11, preventing Netburn from gaining the judgeship. President Joe Biden nominated Sarah Netburn for the position, but her past judgments raised concerns.
In August 2022, Netburn suggested the transfer of William McClain, a male serial rapist who identifies as female and goes by July Justine Shelby, to a women’s prison. McClain’s criminal history includes a 1994 conviction for molesting a 9-year-old boy and raping a 17-year-old girl.
Upon release in 2015, McClain was again convicted in 2017 for distributing child pornography. Reports also claim McClain continued to harass female inmates even after the transfer.
The decision to transfer McClain was met with opposition from federal prison officials. They labeled the transfer as “traumatizing and possibly dangerous,” citing potential risks to the female inmates.
Despite stark objections, Netburn dismissed the concerns from federal officials, describing them as “overblown.” This dismissal raised significant alarm among several committee members, influencing their decision against her nomination.
During a committee hearing in May, Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas sharply criticized Netburn for her decision. Cruz argued that Netburn prioritized her political beliefs over the safety and rights of female inmates.
Senator Cruz confronted Netburn during the hearing, highlighting the physical attributes and dangerous history of McClain. "So you took a six-foot-two serial rapist, serial child rapist, with male genitalia, and he said ‘You know, I’d like to be in a women’s prison,’” Cruz said, questioning her judgment.
In a surprising move, Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia voted against Netburn, breaking ranks with his party. This crucial vote played a significant role in the final outcome of the committee's decision.
Netburn continued to defend her decision during the hearing, asserting, “Every person who is incarcerated has a right to feel safe in their space,” referring to McClain as a “she." Her stance, however, failed to quell the controversy.
The committee's negative vote reflected the divided opinions held by its members. Ossoff’s vote, in particular, underscored the deep concern over Netburn's previous judgments.
President Biden's judicial nominations face intense scrutiny, as highlighted by the Senate Judiciary Committee's decision. The refusal to confirm Netburn underscores the impact of judicial decisions on public safety and political alignment. This vote demonstrates the Committee's dedication to thoroughly evaluating nominees' qualifications and past decisions.
ABC News reported that a judge is likely to dismiss Rudy Giuliani's bankruptcy case, agreeing with his lawyers and main creditors, though his debts will remain.
The bankruptcy case involves Rudy Giuliani and his major creditors, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, who secured a $148 million defamation judgment against him. Accusations have surfaced that Giuliani may have ignored bankruptcy regulations and possibly concealed assets.
A dismissal would strip Giuliani of bankruptcy protection without eliminating his financial obligations. Creditors, including Freeman and Moss, could then explore additional legal avenues to recover their money, such as seizing his assets.
U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Sean Lane revealed his intent to make a ruling by the end of the week. A hearing was set for Friday at 1 p.m., during which Lane indicated his inclination to dismiss the case. He dismissed the possibility of converting it to liquidation, stating it wouldn't benefit the creditors.
Gary Fischoff, Giuliani's attorney, argued that dismissing the case would allow his client to appeal the defamation judgment. Rachel Strickland, representing Freeman and Moss, contended that Giuliani was using bankruptcy to evade his debts.
During the hearing, Giuliani interrupted, expressing outrage at Strickland’s remarks, which he claimed were defamatory. However, a committee of his other creditors still argues for keeping the case active with the appointment of a trustee.
In December, Giuliani filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy following the defamation judgment. Earlier this month, he sought conversion to Chapter 7 liquidation but later shifted to pressing for dismissal.
A potential dismissal would enable Freeman and Moss to return to court in Washington, D.C., sidestepping further legal fees. Judge Lane mentioned banning Giuliani from filing for bankruptcy again for 12 months should the case be dismissed.
Freeman and Moss have a pending request to prevent the $148 million judgment from being discharged in bankruptcy. Giuliani is also grappling with disbarment and criminal charges in Georgia and Arizona.
Giuliani listed nearly $153 million in potential debts and estimated assets valued between $1 million and $10 million. Recent submissions reveal he has approximately $94,000 in cash, while his company holds $237,000 in the bank.
Giuliani's main income comes from a retirement account, which has reduced significantly from nearly $2.5 million in 2022 to a little over $1 million by May.
His financial records indicate substantial personal expenses, including $33,000 in condo and co-op costs, $850 for food, and $390 on cleaning services.
Judge Lane is considering dismissing Giuliani's bankruptcy case due to concerns about his past behavior. Giuliani's attorney supports the dismissal to enable an appeal, while creditors are determined to pursue repayment through other legal actions, as Giuliani's debts will remain.