Trump ordered to pay $83 million in defamation case by jury
Donald Trump Ordered to Pay $83.3 Million in Damages for Defamation
A federal jury has ruled that former U.S. president Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million in damages to E. Jean Carroll, a respected journalist who accused him of rape nearly three decades ago. The verdict, reached in less than three hours, far exceeds the $10 million initially sought by Carroll.
The jury awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages and an additional $65 million in punitive damages. In her lawsuit filed in November 2019, Carroll, now 80, claimed that Trump had destroyed her reputation by denying the rape allegations made in her memoir.
Trump, 77, had previously denied knowing Carroll and dismissed her story as a ploy to boost book sales. His lawyers argued that Carroll sought fame and enjoyed the attention she received from her supporters.
This is not the first time Trump has been ordered to pay damages to Carroll. In May of last year, another jury awarded her $5 million for defamation and sexual abuse. Trump is currently appealing that decision.
Carroll’s Fight for Justice
During the trial, Carroll emphasized the impact of Trump’s denials on her reputation as a respected journalist. She argued that punitive damages were necessary to prevent Trump from repeating his false statements.
U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan, who presided over both trials, stated that the previous verdict was binding, leaving the jury to determine the amount Trump should pay.
Trump, a Republican, has used Carroll’s case and his other legal battles to rally support for his political ambitions. He faces multiple criminal indictments and has portrayed himself as a victim of politically motivated lies.
Throughout the trial, Trump expressed his disdain for the proceedings, calling it a “con job” and a “witch hunt.” However, the judge admonished him to remain silent.
Carroll’s lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, argued that Trump needed to be held accountable for his actions. She stated, “Now is the time to make him pay for it dearly.”
Trump’s attorney, Alina Habba, countered that the attacks on Carroll were triggered by the publication of excerpts from her memoir, not Trump’s denials. She also claimed that Carroll enjoyed her newfound fame and support.
Experts estimated that the reputational harm caused by Trump’s statements amounted to $7.3 million to $12.1 million.
Trump’s brief testimony on the witness stand was limited by the judge, who prohibited revisiting settled issues from the previous trial. However, Trump confirmed his previous deposition testimony, where he labeled Carroll’s claims as a “hoax” and called her “mentally sick.”
Carroll, known for her “Ask E. Jean” column in Elle magazine and appearances on NBC’s Today and ABC’s Good Morning America, claimed that her media opportunities diminished due to Trump’s actions.
How does this verdict reinforce the importance of believing and supporting victims, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement
Warded Carroll $3 million in damages, but that decision was later overturned on procedural grounds. This time, however, the jury’s decision is final and binding.
The verdict is significant in many ways. First and foremost, it sends a strong message that no one is above the law, not even a former president. Trump had enjoyed a level of immunity during his presidency, but now he has been held accountable for his actions.
Secondly, it is a victory for survivors of sexual assault and harassment. Rape allegations are often difficult to prove, and victims often face immense challenges in seeking justice. By ruling in favor of Carroll, the jury has shown support for victims and their right to be heard.
The damages awarded to Carroll are substantial and rightfully so. Defamation can have far-reaching consequences, causing irreparable harm to a person’s reputation and livelihood. By denying Carroll’s allegations and calling her a liar, Trump has harmed her personally and professionally. The damages awarded will, to some extent, help compensate for the damage done.
It is worth noting that this case also highlights the importance of the #MeToo movement. Over the past few years, countless survivors have come forward, exposing high-profile individuals who have abused their power. This case further emphasizes the need to believe and support survivors, as well as the need for accountability.
Trump’s response to the verdict has been predictably dismissive. In a statement, his lawyers vowed to appeal the decision, calling it politically motivated. However, the overwhelming evidence presented during the trial and the quick verdict from the jury undermine any claims of bias.
While the legal battle may continue, the verdict stands as a significant moment in legal history. It holds a powerful figure accountable and sends a clear message that defamation will not go unpunished. It also serves as a reminder that no one, regardless of their position or influence, is immune to the consequences of their actions.
In conclusion, the jury’s decision to order Donald Trump to pay $83.3 million in damages for defamation is a major development in the legal battle between him and journalist E. Jean Carroll. It signifies a victory for survivors of sexual assault, establishes accountability for powerful individuals, and reinforces the importance of believing and supporting victims. This decision will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications and serves as a testament to the power of justice.
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