Allegations and Lawsuits
E. Jean Carroll accused Trump of sexual assault in the mid-1990s, as detailed in a 2019 New York magazine story.
Trump, then president, denied the allegations, calling Carroll a “whack job” and claiming he had never met her.
Carroll filed defamation lawsuits in 2019 and 2022, arguing that Trump’s remarks damaged her reputation and exposed her to threats.
Jury Verdict and Damages
In a May 2023 trial, a jury found Trump liable for defamation and sexual abuse, awarding Carroll $5 million.
Before the second trial, the judge ruled in favor of Carroll, stating that she was telling the truth about the assault, and Trump’s denials were defamatory.
The recent federal jury awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages, including $11 million for reputation repair and $7.3 million for emotional harm.
An additional $65 million was awarded in punitive damages.
Trump’s Response and Appeals
Trump, who had already left the courthouse, responded on his social media platform Truth Social, calling the verdict “Absolutely ridiculous!”
He disagreed with both verdicts and announced plans to appeal, describing it as a “Biden Directed Witch Hunt.”
Carroll’s Reaction
Carroll celebrated the verdict, calling it a “great victory for every woman who stands up” and a “huge defeat for every bully.”
She expressed gratitude for the support she received.
Legal Arguments
Carroll’s lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, argued for compensatory damages of $24 million, emphasizing that punitive damages should be enough to deter Trump from defaming her client.
Trump’s attorney, Alina Habba, focused on a “five-hour gap” in 2019 between Carroll’s allegations and Trump’s first defamatory statement, questioning the causation of harassment.
Trump’s Changing Rhetoric
Trump’s response on Truth Social did not include his usual language of denying ever meeting Carroll or portraying her as a “liar.”
During closing arguments, Kaplan asserted that Trump continued to defame Carroll even during the trial, highlighting the financial impact as something Trump cares about.
Closing Arguments Drama
Trump left the courtroom while Kaplan spoke during closing arguments.
Carroll’s attorney, Shawn Crowley, accused Trump of sexual assault and lying, with Trump reacting animatedly, shaking his head, and grimacing.