"Kaplan noted that New York penal law (the jury in the Carroll case was based in New York) has a 'far narrower' definition of the word 'rape' than in 'common modern parlance, its definition in some dictionaries, in some federal and state criminal statutes, and elsewhere,'" the New Republic stated.
“The finding that Ms. Carroll failed to prove that she was ‘raped’ within the meaning of the New York Penal Law does not mean that she failed to prove that Mr. Trump ‘raped’ her as many people commonly understand the word ‘rape,’” Kaplan wrote.
The words come as Kaplan rejected a move by Trump's lawyers for a retrial or to reduce the $5 million amount in damages charged against Trump as excessive.
Carroll is also considering another case against Trump for defamation based on his statements against her after the ruling by the jury.
In addition to the case with Carroll, Trump faces other legal battles related to his actions following the 2020 election, including possible charges for his role in Jan. 6, 2021.
The polls still show Trump in a commanding lead but his legal cases continue to grow as he seeks a comeback bid for the White House.
