Carroll to Trump: 'It's time to pay' - President's appeal rejected

Writer E. Jean Carroll's attorneys stated that former US President Donald Trump was trying to prolong the appeals process to avoid paying the 5 million dollar compensation awarded to her for sexual abuse and defamation. However, the federal appeals court rejected Trump's appeal, upholding the jury's decision. This decision is seen as a significant turning point in Trump's long-running legal battle.

Carroll claimed she was sexually abused by Trump in a store in the 1990s, while Trump denied these allegations and defamed Carroll. In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, ruling that Carroll be paid 5 million dollars in damages. Trump's attorneys had appealed the decision, arguing it was erroneous.

The appeals court's decision is only part of Trump's legal troubles. Trump is also facing various cases such as falsification of business records, election interference, and mishandling of classified documents. These cases could affect Trump's campaign in the 2024 presidential election.

In a statement following the court's decision, Carroll's attorneys said, "Now it's time to pay. Trump has tried to delay justice for years, but finally the jury decision has been upheld." Trump's campaign team, however, criticized the decision, stating, "This is a political witch hunt. Trump is innocent and we will take this decision to the Supreme Court."

Legal experts note that the appeals court's decision is a bad sign for Trump, but the process is not over yet. Trump has the right to appeal to the Supreme Court. However, this process could take months, and in the meantime, Carroll's receipt of compensation could be delayed. Nevertheless, the decision is considered an important victory for victims of sexual abuse.