INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – A judge has given approval for former President Donald Trump’s $92 million bond to cover a jury award. The bond is expected to secure Trump’s financial obligation in a defamation lawsuit filed by a woman who claims he sexually assaulted her in the 1990s. This ruling comes after Trump’s request for an appeal was denied by the New York Court of Appeals.
The ruling by Judge James Oetken ensures that the woman will receive the full amount of the jury award. In 2019, a jury had found Trump liable for defamation after he publicly denied the allegations made by the woman, who goes by the pseudonym “Jane Doe.” The jury awarded her $2.9 million in damages, which the former president was appealing.
The decision to grant the bond was made to ensure that the woman would receive her due compensation in case Trump’s appeal is unsuccessful. If the appeal does not go in Trump’s favor, he would be required to pay the amount in damages.
This latest development adds to the legal challenges the former president faces, as he deals with multiple lawsuits relating to his conduct during his time in office. It is notable that the $92 million bond is one of the highest ever approved in a defamation case.
The ruling by the judge could have far-reaching implications for future defamation cases involving public figures. It sets a precedent that individuals taking legal action against public figures may be granted substantial bonds to secure their awards.
Trump’s legal team had argued against the bond, stating that it was excessive and unnecessary. They had also requested a stay on the enforcement of the judgment until the appeal process was complete. However, Judge Oetken denied their requests, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the plaintiff receives the compensation she is owed.
With this ruling, the legal battle continues for Trump, who has continued to assert his innocence and maintain that the allegations against him are politically motivated. As the case unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts public figures’ legal liabilities in defamation suits.