Georgia
Giuliani settles legal fight with former Georgia election workers and agrees to stop defaming them
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 19: Former New York City Mayor and former personal lawyer for former President Donald Trump Rudy Giuliani talks to members of the press before he leaves the U.S. District Court on May 19, 2023 in Washington, DC. Giuliani is sued
NEW YORK – Rudy Giuliani reached a deal Thursday that lets the cash-strapped ex-New York City mayor keep his homes and belongings, including prized World Series rings.
The deal was in exchange for unspecified compensation and a promise to never again speak ill of two former Georgia elections workers who won a $148 million defamation judgment against him.
Giuliani’s legal trouble
The backstory:
Rudy Giuliani, once known as “America’s Mayor” for his leadership after 9/11, faced legal challenges after serving as President Trump’s personal attorney.
Following the 2020 election, Giuliani made false claims about two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, leading to a $148 million defamation judgment against him.
Giuliani’s settlement
What we know:
Giuliani reached a settlement allowing him to keep his homes and World Series rings in exchange for unspecified compensation and a promise not to defame Freeman and Moss again.
The agreement resolves all pending litigation and cancels a trial that was set to determine the ownership of his Florida condominium and rings.
Giuliani stated that the settlement “does not involve an admission of liability or wrongdoing.”
What does Freeman, Moss get?
What we don’t know:
The specifics of the settlement, including the amount Giuliani agreed to pay Freeman and Moss, remain undisclosed.
It is unclear how Giuliani is financing the settlement or if he has any assistance in doing so.
Giuliani’s legal troubles unfolded
Timeline:
Giuliani filed for bankruptcy shortly after the defamation verdict, pausing collection efforts.
Last week, a judge found Giuliani in contempt for failing to disclose information about his assets.
The settlement was reached after three days of negotiations, just before a trial was set to begin.
Freeman, Moss react
What they’re saying:
FFreeman and Moss expressed relief, stating, “The past four years have been a living nightmare… Today is a major milestone in our journey.”
Giuliani remarked, “This litigation has taken its toll on all parties,” and emphasized that no one deserves threats or harassment.
Chapter closed for Giuliani
What’s next:
With the settlement in place, Freeman and Moss can move forward with their lives.
Giuliani retains his assets and has agreed not to speak ill of the women again, marking a significant step in closing this chapter of his career.
The Source: This article is based on original reporting by the Associated Press. Associated Press writer Dave Collins contributed reporting.