(PatriotNews.net) – A federal judge refused to dismiss a defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump, relating to his controversial comments on the 1989 Central Park Five case.
At a Glance
- A federal judge ruled that the defamation lawsuit against Trump over the “Central Park Five” case can proceed.
- The judge stated Trump’s statements could be “objectively determined” to be false.
- The lawsuit stems from comments Trump made during a 2024 debate with Kamala Harris.
- Trump is accused of falsely claiming the “Central Park Five” pleaded guilty and killed a person.
- Trump’s lawyer argues the lawsuit attacks free speech and is baseless.
Judge Allows Defamation Lawsuit to Proceed
U.S. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone denied Donald Trump’s request to dismiss a defamation lawsuit over his remarks concerning the “Central Park Five.” This case revisits the controversial statements Trump made during a 2024 debate with Kamala Harris, where he allegedly misrepresented the historical case. The lawsuit, filed by the exonerated men, suggests Trump’s false portrayal caused reputational harm. Judge Beetlestone ruled that Trump’s comments could be analyzed and proven false, allowing the lawsuit to move forward.
The case date back to 1989, when the Central Park Five were wrongly accused and convicted of raping a jogger. Their exoneration in 2002 should have closed this chapter, but it appears Trump’s words during a recent political debate have re-opened wounds. His insistence that they pleaded guilty and committed murder, statements contrary to facts, is at the core of this lawsuit.
Trump lost a bid to dismiss a defamation lawsuit brought by plaintiffs known as the Exonerated Five (formerly the Central Park Five) https://t.co/LyvxT2onEs
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) April 10, 2025
Trump’s Legal Team Responds
Trump’s lawyer, Karin Sweigart, has strongly opposed the lawsuit, branding it “baseless” and an infringement on free speech. Citing Pennsylvania’s anti-SLAPP law, Sweigart argues the lawsuit exemplifies misuse of legal processes to stifle freedom of expression. “We firmly believe the entire case should have been dismissed,” she said in a statement.
“This baseless lawsuit is yet another unfounded and meritless attack against President Trump.” – Karin Sweigart.
The contentious legal battle underscores the ongoing national debate over racial injustice, historical wrongs, and accountability of public figures. The Exonerated Five, who have since embraced various civic roles, seek justice not just for their past, but to prevent further manipulation of history to support false narratives.
President Trump must face Central Park Five defamation suit, judge rules https://t.co/f3BiJTawpM
— The Hill (@thehill) April 10, 2025
A Broader Context of Historical Injustice
This lawsuit highlights not only Trump’s controversial legacy but also the wider context of historical injustices inflicted upon marginalized communities. The decision to let the lawsuit proceed reiterates the importance of holding figures of power accountable for spreading falsehoods. As the case unfolds, it presents an opportunity for public discourse on race, justice, and truth in America.
“a full-page ad in The New York Times calling for the execution of five young Black and Latino boys who were innocent, the Central Park Five.” – Kamala Harris.
Will this lawsuit shift public perception or prompt more careful rhetoric from politicians? While Trump’s legal challenges continue to pile up, the consequences of his words in this particular case underline the importance of historical truth in shaping the present and the future.
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