Former President Donald Trump is seeking a Supreme Court review of a civil case verdict, where a jury found him liable for defamation and sexual abuse against writer E. Jean Carroll. This $5 million case arose from allegations that Trump assaulted Carroll in the 1990s.
Background on the Case
The civil trial, overseen by Judge Lewis Kaplan, concluded with the jury awarding damages to Carroll. Throughout the proceedings, Trump maintained that the trial was unfair. He argued that Kaplan improperly allowed damaging evidence to be presented, which influenced the jury’s perception.
Court Rulings
A federal appeals court previously upheld the jury’s decision, stating there were no errors warranting a new trial. In June, Trump’s request for a rehearing was denied, pushing his appeal to the highest court.
Details of the Allegations
Carroll, now 81 years old, claimed that Trump attacked her in a Manhattan department store dressing room. Following Trump’s public denial on his Truth Social platform in 2022, Carroll initiated her defamation lawsuit. The jury, however, did not find sufficient evidence to support her rape claims under New York’s penal code.
Trump’s Legal Arguments
Trump’s attorneys argue that the jury was improperly influenced by evidence, including a controversial tape from 2005. The tape featured Trump discussing his behavior towards women. They contend that Carroll’s allegations should not hold merit, stating:
- No eyewitnesses or video evidence exists.
- No police report or investigation was conducted.
- Carroll waited over 20 years to accuse Trump, coinciding with his political rise.
Consequences of the Verdict
In another legal issue, Trump’s comments about the jury’s findings led to a separate jury ordering him to pay Carroll $83 million for defamation. This ruling was also upheld by a panel of federal judges in September.
The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to take up Trump’s appeal remains uncertain. Roberta Kaplan, Carroll’s attorney, declined to comment on the Supreme Court petition.
