In a significant legal setback for former President Donald Trump, a jury has ruled that he must pay $83.3 million in damages. This verdict, the second in a year, is a part of a defamation lawsuit brought by E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of making defamatory statements and denying her rape allegations. The jury’s decision includes $18.3 million in compensatory damages and an astonishing $65 million in punitive damages, surpassing Carroll’s initial claim by eight times.
Despite the substantial award, the path to receiving the money is uncertain, as Trump has indicated plans to appeal. This mirrors the ongoing appeal from the previous defamation trial where Carroll was awarded $5 million in damages. Trump took a step last year by setting aside $5.5 million in a court-controlled account, but access to these funds depends on exhausting all appeals, potentially reaching the Supreme Court.
During the trial, a noteworthy incident occurred when Trump walked out of the courtroom during Carroll’s closing argument, displaying his defiance. The trial’s restrictions, imposed by Judge Lewis Kaplan, contrasted with Trump’s previous behavior in civil trials, where he openly criticized proceedings and participants.
Carroll successfully persuaded the jury that she suffered harm from Trump’s defamatory statements. Her legal team argued for substantial punitive damages to discourage further attacks from Trump, emphasizing the malice in his statements. Trump’s defense shifted blame to media frenzy and public attention, claiming Carroll would have faced negativity regardless.
Throughout the trial, Judge Kaplan repeatedly admonished Trump’s attorney, underscoring a pattern seen in Trump’s other civil trials. The judge’s impatience and warnings suggest a challenging legal path for Trump in upcoming cases.
In summary, the recent jury decision adds to Trump’s legal challenges, indicating potential financial consequences and ongoing legal battles.
