Writer E. Jean Carroll Receives $5 Million Damages in Legal Battle Against Former President Trump
After a lengthy legal battle, writer E. Jean Carroll has finally received the $5 million in damages awarded to her by a jury in a federal civil lawsuit against former President Trump. The jury found that Trump had sexually assaulted and defamed Carroll, leading to the damages payment. The money, which had been held in a court-controlled bank account, was released to Carroll following the Supreme Court's decision not to hear Trump's appeal.
Carroll's attorney, Roberta Kaplan, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the significance of the victory for Carroll and women worldwide. The legal proceedings involved a bitter back-and-forth between Carroll's lawyer and Trump's legal team, with efforts to expedite or delay the disbursement of funds. Ultimately, Carroll received close to $5.8 million, including accrued interest.
The jury's verdict in the civil trial concluded that Trump had forcibly assaulted Carroll in a department store dressing room, inserting his fingers into her. While the jury rejected the rape claim, it found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation. The trial shed light on a pattern of alleged sexual misconduct by Trump, with witnesses testifying to similar encounters and evidence presented from the infamous "Access Hollywood" video.
Carroll, now 82 years old, sees the damages payment as a significant milestone in her ongoing pursuit of justice against Trump. Despite Trump's denial of the allegations and his appeal of the verdict, Carroll remains steadfast in seeking accountability for the harm she claims to have suffered. The legal battle continues, with Trump appealing another jury's decision to award Carroll $83 million for further defamatory statements. The case is expected to reach the Supreme Court, prolonging the legal saga between Carroll and Trump.