Trump Ordered to Pay Over $80 Million in Carroll Defamation Case
A federal jury has ruled that former President Donald Trump must compensate E. Jean Carroll with more than $83 million in a high-profile defamation lawsuit.
The decision includes $18.3 million in compensatory damages and a substantial $65 million in punitive damages, as confirmed by Federal Judge Lewis A. Kaplan.
The verdict, delivered on Friday, follows a contentious trial where Trump was previously deemed liable for sexual abuse and defamation, resulting in a $5 million judgment in a New York City federal jury’s decision last year.
Trump swiftly denounced the latest outcome, labeling it a politically motivated “witch hunt” and vowing to appeal the decision.
“Absolutely ridiculous! I fully disagree with both verdicts, and will be appealing this whole Biden Directed Witch Hunt focused on me and the Republican Party,” Trump posted on his TRUTH Social shortly after the verdict was read. “Our Legal System is out of control, and being used as a Political Weapon. They have taken away all First Amendment Rights.”
Carroll’s Allegations and Trump’s Defiant Stance
Carroll’s lawsuit, stemming from her claim that Trump raped her at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in the mid-90s, sought a $12 million recompense.
Trump, maintaining his innocence, faced her defamation suit, arguing her claims tarnished his reputation. During his brief testimony on Thursday, Trump stood by his prior deposition, asserting his right to self-defense against what he perceives as baseless accusations.
As the 2024 GOP frontrunner departs the courtroom, his vocal frustration was evident, with repeated exclamations, “This is not America.” His legal team continues to dispute Carroll’s claims, portraying them as a ploy to boost her book sales and tarnish Trump’s image.
Contentious Social Media Posts and Legal Battle
Trump has taken to his Truth Social platform to express his indignation over the trial’s conduct and Judge Kaplan’s decisions, accusing the legal process of being unfairly biased against him. He claims a denial of his constitutional rights and an imbalance in the trial proceedings.
Carroll’s legal team presented evidence of threats she received following her public allegations against Trump, while Trump’s defense highlighted her tweets and public statements to challenge the credibility of her claims.
With information from Fox News Digital
