US writer sues Donald Trump as Adult Survivors Act comes into effect
FirstpostThe new law lifts the statute of limitations for a one-year period on civil claims for sexual offences Former US president Donald Trump has been sued by journalist and writer E Jean Carroll for allegedly raping her in the 1990s. In her complaint, Carroll has alleged that the attack took place in a New York luxury department store dressing room over 27 years ago. In a statement, Carroll’s attorney, Roberta Kaplan, said that the new lawsuit filed on Thursday is intended to hold Trump accountable for the alleged assault. Alina Habba, who represents Trump, told the US media that she respects and admires people who come forward “this case is, unfortunately, an abuse of the purpose of this Act” and “runs the risk of delegitimising the credibility of actual victims.” Many advocates for sexual abuse survivors believe that the legislation provides an opportunity for people to come forward, who did not take action earlier due to trauma or fear of retaliation.