Former President Trump is taking steps to appeal the defamation case brought by E. Jean Carroll by posting a substantial bond of nearly $92 million. This move comes in response to the January ruling that favored Carroll, resulting in an award of over $83 million in damages. The case revolves around Trump’s denial of Carroll’s rape allegations and his accusation that she fabricated the claims to enhance book sales.
Simultaneous to posting the $91 million bond, Trump has filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals to contest the verdict in Carroll’s case. If approved by a judge, this appeal process will grant Trump a stay of enforcement, allowing him time to present his case. The appeal procedure could extend over several months.
Earlier this year, a federal jury concluded that Trump had defamed E. Jean Carroll while rejecting her sexual assault allegations. The damages awarded amounted to $83 million, a sum exceeding the initial judgment due to the court’s usual requirement of 110% of the bond.
Trump’s legal battles extend beyond the Carroll defamation case. He faces a looming deadline of March 25th to address a separate matter — a $454 million obligation in the New York Attorney General’s civil fraud case. The former President is navigating a complex legal landscape that involves multiple high-stakes cases.
Trump’s decision to post the $91 million bond reflects a strategic move to buy time and engage in the appeal process, indicating a willingness to contest the defamation ruling. The financial implications of these legal challenges add further complexity to Trump’s post-presidential endeavors.