Exonerated Five Sue Trump Over Debate Defamation

The Exonerated Five have filed a defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump, accusing him of making false statements in a recent debate. The group, previously convicted and later exonerated in the Central Park jogger case, seeks to hold Trump accountable for his controversial remarks and past actions.

The Exonerated Five have taken legal action against Donald Trump, filing a defamation lawsuit just two weeks before the election. The lawsuit claims that Trump made false and defamatory comments during a presidential debate with Kamala Harris.

In their federal complaint, the group highlighted Trump's incorrect assertion that they had confessed and pled guilty to killing an individual. This statement, they argue, is patently false. The group's wrongful convictions from 1989 were overturned in 2002 when another person admitted to the crime.

Trump's initial involvement in the case included purchasing a full-page ad in the New York Times advocating for the teenagers' execution. His stance on this issue marked the beginning of his 'tough-on-crime' political approach. Despite public scrutiny, Trump has stood by his past rhetoric, as evidenced during the latest debate. The Exonerated Five, led by Yusef Salaam, now a NYC councilman, are actively campaigning against Trump, calling for accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)