Federal Judge Orders Rudy Giuliani to Surrender Assets in Defamation Case Judgment

Rudy Giuliani ordered to surrender assets in $148 million defamation case judgment, including Manhattan apartment and luxury items.

At a Glance

Federal judge appoints Georgia election workers as receivers of Giuliani’s assets
Assets include $5+ million Manhattan apartment, vehicles, and luxury items
Giuliani given seven-day deadline to surrender assets for immediate sale
Judgment stems from false election fraud claims against Georgia election workers
Case sets precedent for accountability in election-related defamation cases

Court Orders Asset Seizure in Landmark Ruling

In a significant development that underscores the consequences of spreading unsubstantiated election claims, a federal judge has ordered Rudy Giuliani to surrender his assets to Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman appointed Freeman and Moss as receivers of Giuliani’s assets, granting them control over his Manhattan apartment, vehicles, and other valuable possessions.

The assets to be surrendered include Giuliani’s Manhattan apartment valued at over $5 million, a Palm Beach condominium, a 1980 Mercedes-Benz SL500, luxury watches, and sports memorabilia. The court has given Giuliani a seven-day deadline to hand over these assets, which Freeman and Moss can immediately sell to satisfy the $148 million defamation judgment against him.

A federal judge ordered Rudy Giuliani to turn over much of his property, including his apartment in New York and a collection of luxury watches, to two Georgia election workers who won a $148 million defamation judgment against him https://t.co/uTa4ZUO4U9

— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) October 22, 2024

Financial Implications and Legal Context

The financial implications of this ruling are substantial. Giuliani disclosed only $10.6 million in total assets, significantly less than the judgment amount. The receivers can also pursue $2 million in claimed legal fees from the Trump campaign. This action follows Giuliani’s unsuccessful attempt to declare bankruptcy, which was rejected due to lack of financial transparency.

“At every step, Mr. Giuliani has chosen evasion, obstruction, and outright disobedience. That strategy reaches the end of the line here.” – lawyers for Freeman and Moss

The verdict stems from false election fraud claims Giuliani made against Georgia election workers. A default judgment was issued after Giuliani failed to provide required documentation in the defamation case. Despite the court’s decision, Giuliani continues to appeal the $148 million verdict.

Specific Property Details and Ongoing Disputes

The court order is comprehensive, requiring Giuliani to surrender his television, furniture, and 26 watches, some of which were reportedly diplomatic gifts. The status of Giuliani’s Yankees World Series rings remains pending, with a hearing scheduled for October 28. Additionally, a dispute over Giuliani’s Palm Beach condo is set for trial in January 2025.

“In the absence of a turnover order to a receiver, Plaintiffs would bear the unacceptable risk of delay and Defendant’s insolvency,” Liman wrote in his ruling. “The Court finds no good cause to impose additional limits on the time or manner of the liquidation or prosecution of any other item or interest on the list.” – U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman

Giuliani’s legal team has voiced strong opposition to the court’s decision. His spokesperson, Ted Goodman, characterized the lawsuit as an attempt to “censor and bully” Giuliani, arguing that it’s designed to deter others from exercising their right to speak up. However, the court’s ruling emphasizes the importance of accountability in cases involving election-related defamation.

Rudy Giuliani must turn over much of his property — his apartment in New York and other prized possessions — to two Georgia election workers who have sought for months to collect their massive defamation judgment, a federal judge ruled Tuesday. https://t.co/9EEefA3iKd

— WJHL (@WJHL11) October 23, 2024

Broader Implications for Election-Related Defamation Cases

This case sets a significant precedent for accountability in election-related defamation cases. It demonstrates the enforcement mechanisms available for substantial defamation judgments and highlights the serious consequences of spreading unsubstantiated election claims. The ruling is part of broader efforts to combat disinformation in the U.S. using libel law, with the enforcement of such judgments seen as crucial for maintaining the integrity of public discourse surrounding elections.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the legal and financial risks associated with making unfounded allegations about election integrity. The outcome of Giuliani’s appeals and the final distribution of his assets will be closely watched, potentially influencing future cases involving public figures and election-related statements.