Imagine reliving a nightmare you've already escaped from. That's what the Central Park Five, now known as the Exonerated Five, are facing after Donald Trump repeated false claims about their case during a recent debate. These men, who were wrongfully convicted and later exonerated for a 1989 crime, are suing Trump for defamation. They argue that his statements in front of millions were untrue and damaging. One of their lawyers said Trump's words made them feel like they had to defend their names all over again. Trump's side calls the lawsuit a distraction tactic.

Back in 1989, these five teenagers, now adults, were accused of a brutal attack in Central Park. They said they were coerced into confessing. Later, they were convicted and spent years in prison. Their convictions were thrown out in 2002 when another person confessed to the crime. Trump, back then, paid for a newspaper ad calling for their execution.

During the latest debate, Trump mixed up details of the case, saying the men had pled guilty, which isn't true. The victim didn't die. Now, the Exonerated Five, including one who is a city councilman, are asking for a trial to decide how much Trump should pay for his comments. Other lawsuits against Trump for similar reasons have led to big payouts.

The Central Park Five Fight Back: Lawsuit Targets Trump for False Claims

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