Central Park Five Sue Trump for Debate Defamation

The Central Park Five, wrongfully convicted teenagers, have sued Donald Trump for defamation over false statements made during a U.S. presidential debate. Despite being cleared in 2002, the defendants seek damages for emotional and reputational harm after Trump claimed they killed someone and pleaded guilty.

The Central Park Five have launched a legal battle against Donald Trump, filing a defamation lawsuit over statements made during a recent presidential debate. The case underscores persistent tensions surrounding the widely-publicized wrongful convictions of these five Black and Hispanic teenagers.

Despite being exonerated in 2002 with new DNA evidence and a confession from another individual, Trump stated at the debate that the group had killed someone and pleaded guilty. The comments fueled further controversy, adding to Trump's history of inflammatory remarks regarding the case.

The lawsuit highlights the ongoing emotional and reputational damage suffered by the men, decades after their convictions. Legal representatives emphasize the harmful impact of Trump's remarks and seek unspecified monetary and punitive damages.

(With inputs from agencies.)