Supreme Court’s Decision
The Supreme Court has turned down former President Donald Trump’s request to reconsider a $5 million jury verdict that found he sexually abused writer E. Jean Carroll. Trump’s legal team had sought to eliminate the jury’s findings regarding an incident that allegedly took place in a New York City department store in the mid-1990s. In addition, the jury had determined that Trump defamed Carroll by denying her claims in 2022.
The Supreme Court’s decision to reject Trump’s appeal is part of a larger set of denials, as such requests are rarely granted. Following the court’s refusal to hear his appeal in June, Trump fulfilled the judgment payment.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
Beyond this case, Trump, along with the Justice Department, is trying to overturn another Carroll verdict, which amounts to $83 million. They argue Trump’s immunity from lawsuits over statements he made in 2019 while serving as president. The Supreme Court has not yet made a decision regarding this separate appeal.
Background on E. Jean Carroll
Carroll is known for her work as an advice columnist and television talk show host. She testified during a trial in 2023 that a friendly encounter in the 1990s turned violent when Trump allegedly attacked her in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman, situated near Trump Tower in Manhattan.
Despite the jury’s ruling, Trump has consistently denied any misconduct in both cases involving Carroll.
The Associated Press maintains a policy of not naming individuals who report sexual assault unless they choose to publicly disclose their identity, as Carroll has done.