NEW YORK — A federal judge has ordered that E. Jean Carroll receive nearly $5.8 million after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear President Donald Trump’s appeal of a civil verdict finding him liable for sexually abusing and defaming her.
U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan authorized the release of the funds, which include the original $5 million jury award plus accrued interest. The money had been held in a court-controlled account while Trump pursued appeals.
Supreme Court Declined Appeal
The order follows the Supreme Court’s decision not to review Trump’s challenge to the 2023 verdict.
Trump’s attorneys had argued the trial was tainted by improper evidence. Carroll’s lawyers said the appeals process had run its course and that there was no longer a legal basis to delay payment.
Trump Sought To Delay Payment
Trump’s legal team asked Kaplan not to release the money while they seek reconsideration from the Supreme Court.
They argued Carroll may donate the funds, making it difficult to recover the money if Trump somehow later prevailed. Kaplan rejected the request and ordered the payment released.
Jury Found Trump Liable In 2023
A federal jury in 2023 found Trump liable for sexually abusing Carroll in the 1990s and defaming her after she publicly accused him.
The jury did not find Trump liable for rape under New York’s narrower legal definition at the time, but did find him liable for sexual abuse and defamation.
Trump has denied Carroll’s allegations and continues to deny wrongdoing.
Separate $83.3M Case Continues
The ruling does not resolve Carroll’s separate $83.3 million defamation judgment against Trump.
That award stems from a different case involving Trump’s statements after Carroll first went public with her accusation. Trump has separately challenged that verdict, and the money remains covered by a bond while litigation continues.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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