From Fortune:

A jury has awarded a staggering $83.3 million to advice columnist E. Jean Carroll in a libel case against former President Donald Trump.

The verdict suggested Trump defamed Carroll when he called her a liar. The case stemmed from Carroll’s sexual assault allegations against Trump.

The trial concluded about a week ago, having lasted several days. At some point, Trump abruptly walked out and later left the building before the jury’s decision was read aloud.

The verdict marked the second legal victory for Carroll in nine months, with a jury awarding her $5 million in May.

Carroll testified that Trump’s statements had led to death threats. She claimed she had suffered emotional distress and damages to her reputation, resulting in costly security measures and a gun in her home.

A sociologist said Trump’s statements caused between $7.2 and $12.1 million in harm to Carroll’s reputation. Meanwhile, Trump’s lawyer claimed that no damages were warranted.

During cross-examination, Trump maintained that Carroll’s accusation was a false claim and that he was defending himself, his family, and the presidency.

Despite the legal proceedings, Trump is moving forward with his intention to secure the Republican presidential nomination. He has sought to spin the trials into a narrative about a rigged political system, which resonates with his staunch supporters.

Nonetheless, the verdict sent a powerful message, indicating that even former presidents can be held accountable for their actions.



Read more: Trump vows to appeal jury’s $83.3 million verdict for E. Jean Carroll