Trump's Sexual Assault Conviction Upheld by Appeals Court
In a significant legal setback for former President Donald Trump, a federal appeals court in Manhattan has upheld a ruling requiring him to pay $5 million to E. Jean Carroll, a former Elle magazine columnist, for battery and defamation stemming from a sexual assault case. This ruling, confirmed on Monday, follows a district court's decision made in May 2023, which Trump's legal team argued was flawed. However, the appellate court found no errors in the lower court's proceedings, labeling Trump's claims as unfounded.
In response to the verdict, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Trump, characterized the ruling as part of a 'witch hunt,' asserting that it was a product of Democratic funding and manipulation. He indicated plans to pursue further legal options and appeal the decision.
As Trump prepares for his upcoming presidency starting January 20, he has recently appointed Cheung as the communications director at the White House. Meanwhile, in a statement reflecting on the court's decision, Carroll's attorney expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that E. Jean Carroll is 'very pleased' with the appellate court's ruling.
The legal battle highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Trump's numerous controversies and legal difficulties, which continue to shadow his political career as he gears up for his new term in office.
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