North Florida’s very own Jane Sheppard here, bringing you the latest news from Suwannee County. This week, we delve into a story that is sure to interest, shock, and provoke conversation among our readers.
Stacey Williams Accuses Donald Trump
Stacey Williams, a former model, has publicly accused former President Donald Trump of groping her in 1993 at Trump Tower. She alleges that the disturbing incident unraveled while disgraced hedge fund manager Jeffrey Epstein passively observed. Williams made this startling revelation during a video chat of sexual violence survivors supporting Vice President Kamala Harris‘ campaign.
These allegations against Trump are part of a long list of accusations, which notably include that of E. Jean Carroll. Carroll has been embroiled in a legal battle with the former President since a jury found him liable in 2023 for sexually assaulting her in 1996 and later defaming her.
Williams Recalls Meeting Epstein and Trump
Williams has reported that she started seeing Epstein in 1992. She recalls a particular instance in “late winter, early spring” of 1993 when Epstein suggested visiting Trump at Trump Tower. Williams recounts that Trump greeted them and shortly after, groped her. She alleges that Trump put his hands all over her body, an action that left her feeling confused and violated.
Responding to the allegation, Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for Trump, has dismissed the allegations as “unequivocally false” and suggested political motivations behind them.
According to Williams, Epstein reacted with anger after the incident but directed his rage at her rather than Trump. She alleges that Epstein berated her, making her feel “disgusting” and “humiliated”.
Trump and Epstein’s Alleged “Twisted Game”
Reflecting on the incident, Williams has speculated that Trump and Epstein could have been involved in a “sick bet or game”, treating her as an object for their amusement. Williams also revealed that she received a postcard from Trump not long after the incident, which her team has provided to The Associated Press.
Williams Shares Her Story
Williams shared her story on a video call organized by Survivors for Harris, a group that is not officially affiliated with the Harris campaign. In an interview with CNN after the video call, Williams described her encounter with Trump as “one of the strangest moments” of her life.
Despite Trump‘s attempts to distance himself from Epstein in recent years, he told New York Magazine in 2002 that he had known “Jeff” for 15 years, describing him as a “terrific guy”.
Trump has faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct and assault over the years, all of which he has denied. Despite these allegations, Trump went on to win the 2016 election, and the allegations against him have not slowed his political rise.
Williams explained to CNN that she chose not to come forward earlier due to family considerations and the personal journey of contending with such traumatic incidents.
As we continue to cover this story, it’s essential to remember the courage it takes for survivors to come forward and share their experiences. Reporting on sensitive issues like this is a crucial part of our role as journalists, and we strive to provide accurate, empathetic coverage for our readers.
