Judge Dismisses Trump’s Attempt to Countersue Sexual Abuse Accuser
Trump’s Failed Attempt to Defend Against Abuse Lawsuit
Former US President Donald Trump’s efforts to countersue E. Jean Carroll, who accused him of sexual abuse, have been rejected by a judge.
The ruling puts an end to Trump’s claim that Carroll defamed him when she alleged sexual abuse and rape.
Carroll had previously won a $5 million judgment against Trump in May, and she is now pursuing her own defamation lawsuit against him.
Trump’s Lawyer Plans to Appeal
Trump’s attorney, Alina Habba, announced that they will appeal the judge’s decision, labeling it a “flawed decision” regarding the dismissal of Trump’s counterclaim.
However, Carroll’s lawyer, Robbie Kaplan, expressed satisfaction with the ruling and looks forward to the upcoming defamation trial scheduled for January.
The trial is a result of Trump’s denial of Carroll’s sexual assault allegations.
The Allegations and Jury Verdict
Carroll, a writer, accused Trump of sexually abusing her in 1996, alleging that he forcibly kissed and raped her in a luxury department store dressing room.
Trump vehemently denied these claims and referred to Carroll as a “nut job” who fabricated a false story to promote her memoir.
In the trial held earlier this year, a civil court jury found Trump guilty of sexual abuse but rejected the claim of rape.
Defamation Lawsuit and Judge’s Ruling
In response to the jury verdict, Trump sued Carroll, alleging defamation and seeking retraction and monetary compensation.
However, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, not related to Carroll’s lawyer, dismissed Trump’s claim.
The judge stated that both Carroll’s allegations and the jury’s verdict amounted to felonious sex crimes, using the term “rape” in everyday language and some legal contexts.
The dismissal of Trump’s countersuit is significant, as it reaffirms the jury’s verdict that Trump sexually abused Carroll.
While Trump’s legal team plans to appeal, Carroll’s lawyer is hopeful that the upcoming defamation trial will lead to further compensatory and punitive damages.
The case has garnered widespread attention, highlighting issues related to sexual assault, defamation, and the use of language in legal contexts.
The judge’s ruling emphasizes that both allegations and the jury’s decision fall under the category of felonious sex crimes, irrespective of the specific legal language used.
As the legal battle continues, public interest remains focused on the outcomes and implications of these high-profile accusations.
The case has broader implications for discussions around accountability and justice in cases of sexual misconduct involving powerful figures.
