A former Sports Illustrated model has levelled serious allegations against Donald Trump, claiming inappropriate behaviour in the 1990s.
In a detailed account, Stacey Williams has come forward, alleging Trump groped her in an attempt to impress Jeffrey Epstein. This claim adds to the controversy surrounding the former President.
The Allegation
In a bold claim, former Sports Illustrated model Stacey Williams has accused Donald Trump of inappropriate conduct in the 1990s. She recently recounted the incident in a detailed interview. Williams alleges that Trump groped her outside his office at Trump Tower as Jeffrey Epstein looked on, adding a significant charge to the myriad claims against the former President.
Williams, in her twenties at the time, described being taken to Trump Tower by Epstein in 1993. She alleges Trump, upon meeting her, immediately put his hands on her forcibly. The situation felt surreal and alarming, with Trump and Epstein reportedly exchanging smiles during the incident. Williams described the incident as an out-of-body experience, leaving her unsure of her reactions.
Epstein’s Role and Response
Williams recounts Epstein’s silent demeanour in the aftermath, only to admonish her later for not stopping Trump’s actions. This added to her emotional turmoil, as Epstein’s reaction compounded feelings of shame and humiliation. This reaction from a person she briefly dated indicates deeper issues, adding layers to the complex dynamic among the individuals involved.
According to Williams, Epstein had previously shown interest in her during a dinner in New York, leading to several encounters. However, following the alleged incident at Trump Tower, Williams recognised a “dark and disturbing” side to Epstein, prompting her to sever ties. Her account signals the toxic environment she navigated, often involving influential figures appearing friendly but harbouring ulterior motives.
Impact of the Encounter
The experience left a lasting impact on Williams. The alleged incident, coupled with Epstein’s derogatory remarks, deeply affected her mental and emotional well-being. These feelings lingered, leading her to suppress the event for many years.
Williams described feeling paraded like an object during the alleged encounter, which contributed to her decision to avoid Trump in social situations thereafter. She articulated the fear of being in proximity to Trump, demonstrating the incident’s profound personal ramifications.
Not long after the incident, Williams received a postcard from Trump, depicting Mar-a-Lago, with the message ‘Your home away from home. Love, Donald.’ This, combined with the initial encounter, intensified her feelings of vulnerability and discomfort.
Public and Private Silence
Williams chose not to discuss the alleged encounter publicly for years, a decision influenced by personal and social considerations. Her silence was predominantly driven by fear and the stigma surrounding such allegations, a common sentiment among victims of similar experiences.
This changed as Trump’s public profile increased. Williams confided in friends over time, sharing the details of her encounter when prompted by his presidential campaign. This disclosure marked a significant step for Williams, although she continued to avoid discussing it broadly until later.
The Decision to Come Forward
Williams’s decision to publicly address the allegations was informed by a growing sense of responsibility, inspired by the #MeToo movement and a documentary about the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Initially, she chose to speak anonymously, slowly gaining the courage to come forward openly.
Her participation in the documentary and her evolving perspective on personal experiences facilitated her public disclosure. Williams emphasised that her timing was influenced more by personal readiness than political motives. Despite the contentious political landscape, she sought to highlight her story independently of electoral concerns.
Acknowledging her long-standing support of Democratic principles, Williams nonetheless stressed that her choice to speak was separate from political strategy, focused instead on personal truth and accountability.
Trump and Epstein Connections
Williams’s account revives discussion surrounding Trump’s historical connections with Epstein, the notorious financier. Both were seen together in social settings, an association Trump has since attempted to downplay after Epstein’s criminal charges emerged.
In the 2000s, Trump publicly distanced himself from Epstein, despite earlier comments describing Epstein as a “terrific guy”. These historical ties continue to cast a shadow over Trump, especially as more allegations surface, challenging his attempts to separate his image from Epstein’s notoriety.
Williams’s allegations against Donald Trump resonate against ongoing scrutiny about his past actions.
Her revelation underscores a broader narrative about the misuse of power and the emergence of voices challenging historical wrongdoings.