Trump Hit with $5m Award in Carroll Defamation Case Despite Rape Claim Rejection
Jury Sides with Carroll on Defamation, But Rejects Rape Allegation
A nine-person jury slammed Donald Trump with a $5 million payout for battery and defamation but cleared him of rape. The panel reached its decision in under three hours.
Carroll’s Serious Claims and Trump’s Denials
Linda Carroll, 79, accused Trump of raping her in a Manhattan department store changing room decades ago. She also sued after Trump branded her allegations a “hoax and a lie” on his own social media platform, Truth Social. Trump, who skipped the trial entirely, has constantly denied all claims and insists he never met Carroll.
Key Moments That Shook the Trial
- Jurors saw a deposition where Trump mixed up Carroll with his ex-wife, Marla Maples — damaging his claim she wasn’t his “type.”
- Carroll’s legal team accused Trump of “testifying against himself” by not attending or taking the stand.
- Trump’s lawyers slammed Carroll as “abusing the system” for cash and fame.
What the Verdict Means for Trump and the #MeToo Movement
The case deals another legal blow to Trump amid mounting investigations. Though Carroll got less than she sought, the win could encourage other accusers to come forward. It’s a stark reminder that the #MeToo movement still holds muscle in taking on powerful men.
