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The Exonerated Five sue Trump following his false remarks during the September 10, 2024, presidential debate. Trump claimed that the men “pleaded guilty” and “killed a person,” allegations that have been widely disproven. The defamation lawsuit, filed in Pennsylvania federal court, argues that Trump’s statements damaged the men’s reputations and caused significant emotional harm.

RELATED: Formerly wrongfully incarcerated Yusef Salaam runs for office, seeking redemption in the New York City’s power structure

Lawsuit Details

The Exonerated Five, which includes Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, Korey Wise, and Yusef Salaam, were cleared of all charges in 2002 through DNA evidence and a confession from the real perpetrator, Matias Reyes. Now, they contend that Trump’s comments defamed them and spread misinformation. The lawsuit emphasizes how Trump’s debate statements misled millions of viewers about their innocence.

Throughout his public career, Trump has remained associated with the Central Park case. In 1989, he called for the execution of the five men through full-page ads in New York newspapers. Despite their exoneration, Trump continues to suggest their guilt, which the Exonerated Five claim perpetuates a false narrative.

Trump’s False Claims

The lawsuit clarifies that the Exonerated Five never pleaded guilty, and no victim died during the assault. Yusef Salaam, now a New York City Council member, confronted Trump at the debate, introducing himself to refute the false claims. However, Trump dismissed Salaam, saying, “Ah, you’re on my side then,” to which Salaam replied, “No, I’m not.”

Seeking Damages

The Exonerated Five sue Trump not only for defamation but also for the emotional and reputational harm caused by his repeated false statements. They are seeking compensatory and punitive damages, as well as a public retraction of Trump’s remarks. The lawsuit argues that Trump’s ongoing falsehoods prevent the men from fully moving forward after their wrongful convictions.

Trump’s Continued Denial

Despite the overwhelming evidence that cleared the Exonerated Five, Trump has persisted in questioning their innocence. In a 2013 tweet, he described their exoneration as a “one-sided piece of garbage,” further casting doubt on their case. The lawsuit asserts that such remarks not only damage the men’s reputations but also undermine public confidence in the justice system.

View the filing here.