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Trump Appeals Ruling, Pursues Immunity Over Central Park Five

5/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump appealed to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to block the Central Park Five suit, citing Pennsylvania’s anti-SLAPP law.
District Judge Wendy Beetlestone ruled his comment that the men “pled guilty” and “killed a person” was factual, denying dismissal.
Plaintiffs allege remark caused PTSD, neck pain, shortness of breath and trembling.
Trump’s brief called judge’s reasoning “bizarre” and urged appellate court to grant him immunity.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump appealed to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to block the Central Park Five suit, citing Pennsylvania’s anti-SLAPP law.
District Judge Wendy Beetlestone ruled his comment that the men “pled guilty” and “killed a person” was factual, denying dismissal.
Plaintiffs allege remark caused PTSD, neck pain, shortness of breath and trembling.
Trump’s brief called judge’s reasoning “bizarre” and urged appellate court to grant him immunity.