E. Jean Carroll Defamation Trial: Trump’s Public Statements Under Scrutiny

A Clash of Accusations and Defamation Claims

In a high-profile defamation trial currently underway, former president Donald Trump faces allegations of defaming author E. Jean Carroll by denying her sexual assault claims. The case has taken a dramatic turn as Carroll’s attorney introduces Trump’s public statements as evidence, intensifying the legal battle.

Carroll’s Attorney Submits Trump’s Statements as Evidence

Roberta Kaplan, Carroll’s attorney, has notified the court of her intention to present several pieces of evidence to support Carroll’s defamation claim. These include Trump’s remarks during a post-hearing press conference, a Truth Social post, and pre-trial social media attacks. Kaplan argues that these statements are relevant to the case and demonstrate Trump’s alleged defamatory intent.

Trump’s Denials and Accusations

Trump has vehemently denied knowing Carroll and has dismissed her allegations as “fabricated.” He has accused her of deleting evidence and has labeled the case a “rigged deal” and a “made-up story.” Trump’s lawyer, Alina Habba, has requested a mistrial, alleging that Carroll deleted emails containing death threats against her.

Carroll’s Lawsuit: Seeking Reparation for Defamation

Carroll’s lawsuit centers solely on Trump’s allegedly defamatory statements regarding her sexual assault accusation. The case focuses on an alleged rape incident in a Manhattan department store in the mid-1990s. Carroll seeks damages for the harm caused by Trump’s public denials and attacks on her character.

Previous Jury Verdict: Trump Found Liable for Sexual Abuse and Defamation

In a separate case related to Carroll’s allegations, a jury previously found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation. However, the current trial specifically addresses the damages to be paid by Trump in relation to his defamatory statements.

Current Trial Proceedings: Determining Damages for Defamation

The ongoing trial aims to determine the damages that Trump must pay to Carroll for his defamatory statements. It is limited to the first lawsuit filed by Carroll in 2019 and does not encompass the second lawsuit filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act.

Legal Proceedings: Evidence Submissions and Mistrial Request

Roberta Kaplan has submitted evidence to support Carroll’s defamation claim, while Alina Habba has sought a mistrial based on the alleged deletion of evidence by Carroll. The court will consider these submissions and determine their relevance to the defamation case.

Trump’s Continued Attacks on Carroll via Social Media

Despite the ongoing trial, Trump has continued to attack Carroll on social media. He has labeled her allegations as a “fake story” and a “witch hunt.” These attacks have persisted even after the commencement of the trial, further escalating the conflict.

Conclusion: Awaiting the Court’s Determination

The defamation trial between E. Jean Carroll and Donald Trump is ongoing, with the focus on determining the damages to be paid by Trump for his alleged defamatory statements. Carroll’s attorney has submitted evidence, including Trump’s public statements, to support her case. The court will evaluate the evidence and make a final determination regarding the damages owed to Carroll.