Former President Donald Trump to pay an astounding $83.3 million in damages for his defamatory remarks that refuted writer E. Jean Carroll's allegations of sexual assault.
Jury Verdict:
Carroll was given $18.3 million in compensatory damages and an extra $65 million in punitive damages by the jury. Carroll's attorneys had first asked for $24 million in compensatory damages, claiming that Trump would not further defame their client if only punitive damages were awarded.
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Writer E. Jean Carroll (C) leaves federal court after the verdict (Photo Credit: AFP)
Carroll expressed satisfaction with the ruling and celebrated it as a significant victory for strong women who stand up to bullies. She thought the jury's verdict made a strong statement about the fact that powerful people are accountable for their actions.
Conversely, Trump berated the legal system and promised to challenge the ruling, insisting he was innocent throughout the trial. Since a prior trial had already found Trump liable for defamation and sexual abuse, the trial's main focus was on calculating the proper amount of damages Carroll should receive.
An artist's sketch of former President Donald Trump walking out of a federal courtroom in New York as an attorney for E. Jean Carroll presents her closing argument on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (PC: CBS)
Timing of Verdict:
The fact that the jury's verdict was rendered soon after Trump's triumph in the New Hampshire primary gave the result even more significance. Carroll's lawyer emphasised throughout the trial how Trump's repeated defamatory remarks affected his client's life and reputation. Trump's legal team contended that he ought to answer for his lies and the damage they caused.
In an effort to cast doubt on Carroll's accusations, Trump's lawyer questioned whether there was a connection between Trump's comments and the accompanying harassment. Carroll's lawyers urged the jury to reach a verdict that would punish his client and discourage Trump from taking further steps to protect his reputation after the trial is over. The jury's verdict, which included a substantial award of damages, represented the opinion of Carroll's attorney.
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