Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $83.3 million in damages for defaming E. Jean Carroll, a verdict delivered by a new York jury on Friday, January 26, 2024. The judgment substantially surpasses the initial $5 million awarded to Carroll in May 2023, stemming from Trump’s denial of her allegations of sexual assault and subsequent statements made while he was president.This ruling concludes the second civil defamation case brought by Carroll against Trump. The case centered on statements Trump made in June 2019, while defending himself against Carroll’s accusations of sexual assault, which he dismissed as a “hoax” and claimed were motivated by political reasons.The substantial damages awarded underscore the severity of the jury’s finding that Trump intentionally harmed Carroll’s reputation. The verdict has reignited debate over the legal boundaries of defamation, particularly for public figures, and raises questions about the financial and political consequences for Trump as he campaigns for the 2024 presidential election. Trump is expected to appeal the decision.
United States: Donald Trump convicted to pay 83 million for defamation
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