WASHINGTON: Melania Trump, the wife of US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, on sued two media outlets that alleged she worked as an escort in the 1990s.
Filed in a Maryland court, the suit is against Mail Media, Inc. which publishes the Daily Mail Online, and Webster G. Tarpley, who publishes a blog.
A Slovenian ex-model, Melania is seeking damages to the tune of $150 million.
“These defendants made several statements about Mrs. Trump that are 100 percent false and tremendously damaging to her personal and professional reputation,” her attorney Charles Harder said.
“Defendants broadcast their lies to millions of people throughout the US and the world.”
“Defendants’ actions are so egregious, malicious and harmful to Mrs. Trump that her damages are estimated at $150 million.”
The Daily Mail Online issued a retraction of the article, which the outlet had published on Aug. 20.”
The article “did not intend to state or suggest that these allegations are true, nor did it intend to state or suggest that Mrs. Trump ever worked as an ‘escort’ or in the ‘sex business,’” the retraction said.
“The point of the article was that these allegations could impact the US presidential election even if they are untrue.”
Harder specializes in cases that involve privacy protection and defamation.
He represented former wrestler Hulk Hogan in his successful lawsuit against Gawker Media.
Melania is 24 years younger than her billionaire husband. She is Trump’s third wife and the mother of their young son Barron.
Donald Trump’s wife sues news outlets over prostitution claims
Donald Trump’s wife sues news outlets over prostitution claims
