In a landmark decision, a federal jury ordered Rudy Giuliani to pay $148 million in damages to Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, for defamation. Giuliani, a former legal representative for ex-President Donald Trump, falsely accused them of election fraud, leading to severe emotional and reputational harm.
The trial, spanning four days, revealed how Giuliani’s unfounded claims subjected Freeman and Moss to extreme racist and violent threats. The jury allocated the damages across three categories: emotional distress, punitive, and defamation. Each plaintiff received $20 million for emotional distress and shared $75 million in punitive damages. Additionally, Freeman and Moss were awarded over $16 million and almost $17 million, respectively, for defamation.
Freeman’s testimony highlighted her terror and displacement due to Giuliani’s allegations. Their lawyer, Michael Gottlieb, argued for substantial damages, emphasizing the wrongful targeting of these civil servants in election fraud claims. Giuliani’s lawyer, Joseph Sibley, acknowledged Giuliani’s wrongdoing but appealed for leniency based on his past contributions.
The case, overseen by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, found Giuliani liable after his repeated failure to comply with court orders. Despite clear evidence vindicating Freeman and Moss, Giuliani maintained his allegations. This verdict sends a strong message about the consequences of defamation in the political arena.
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