(BrightPress.org) – New York Federal Judge Lewis Kaplan denied a request by Donald Trump for a new trial in the defamation case for E. Jean Caroll. Judge Kaplan upheld his ruling from February that Trump pays $83.3 million to Carroll in damages.
Carroll, a former columnist for Elle magazine, accused Trump of defaming her when he denied her accusations of sexual abuse in 2019. After a five-day trial in February, the jury awarded Carroll $17.3 million in compensatory damages and $65 million in punitive damages.
Trump’s legal team filed a motion requesting a new trial. Trump’s attorneys claimed that the former president’s testimony was limited during the trial which greatly influenced the jury’s decision. Trump said he only made statements about Carroll to “defend his reputation, protect his family, and defend his Presidency.” Attorneys for Trump also argued the judge gave the jury improper instructions about the burden of proof required to show malice.
Judge Kaplan, in a written statement, said that Trump’s arguments for a new trial are “without merit.” Kaplan called Trump’s social media statements about Carroll “malicious and unceasing attacks” that included public threats and personal attacks that endangered the health and safety of Ms. Carroll. Kaplan also stated that Trump’s “hatred and disdain” for Carroll were obvious in the courtroom as evidenced by Trump walking out during Carroll’s attorney’s closing arguments.
Carroll’s attorney Roberta Kaplan said she is not surprised by Judge Kaplan’s decision and believes the $83.3 million awarded for damages was “entirely reasonable.” Roberta Kaplan is not related to Judge Kaplan.
Trump’s attorney Alina Habba said they will appeal the judge’s decision as it “ignores long-standing constitutional principles…” Trump has continuously denied all charges and claimed to have never even heard of Carroll before she made her accusations.
Trump, the 2024 GOP presumptive presidential nominee is also currently involved in other criminal cases including the “hush money” trial which is in its third week, and a civil fraud trial in New York.
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