In a Manhattan courtroom on Friday, a jury ordered former President Donald J. Trump to pay $83.3 million to writer E. Jean Carroll for defaming her in 2019. Carroll had accused Trump of a decades-old rape, and he continued to attack her through social media, news conferences, and during the trial.
- Carroll’s lawyers argued for a substantial award to deter Trump from further attacks.
- The jury, after less than three hours of deliberation, granted $65 million in punitive damages, finding Trump acted with malice.
- Trump had already left the courtroom when the verdict was delivered, calling it “absolutely ridiculous” on his Truth Social post.
- In addition to punitive damages, the jury awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages for her suffering.
- Trump’s appeal is expected, delaying any immediate payment to Carroll.
Carroll, 80, hailed the verdict as a victory for women standing up against bullies. Trump, claiming a violation of First Amendment rights, pledged to appeal.
- Carroll's lead lawyer, Roberta A. Kaplan, emphasized the verdict applied to everyone, including the rich and famous.
- The jury’s decision exceeded the $5 million awarded last spring in a separate case where Trump was found to have sexually abused Carroll.
- Trump faces further legal challenges, including a civil fraud trial with a potential penalty of about $370 million.
- The verdict followed Trump's recent political successes, securing victories in Iowa and New Hampshire as he eyes another presidential run.
During the trial, Carroll testified about the onslaught of attacks and threats she faced from Trump's supporters, affecting her reputation as an advice columnist. The trial lasted about five days, marked by clashes between Trump's lawyers and the judge.
- Judge Kaplan ruled that the jury’s findings from a previous trial would apply, limiting the focus to damages.
- Trump's testimony, limited to damages, did not contribute significantly to the trial.
- Carroll’s lawyers used Trump’s behavior in court against him, portraying him as believing rules did not apply to him.
- The jury’s award signals a financial blow to Trump, with potential implications for his future legal battles.
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