A Mississippi judge dismissed a defamation lawsuit against a non-profit news outlet that reported on a welfare fraud scandal involving ex-NFL star Brett Favre and former Governor Phil Bryant. The dismissal prevents Bryant from potentially forcing the disclosure of confidential sources used in the reporting. Mississippi Today’s attorney praised the ruling as a protection of First Amendment rights. However, Bryant's legal representative indicated the case could be appealed, suggesting the issue may continue in the judicial system, reflecting ongoing tensions between public figures and press freedom.
The lawsuit had been filed nearly two years ago by former Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant, but Judge Bradley Mills dismissed it, protecting journalism and source anonymity.
Lee Crain, attorney for Mississippi Today, hailed the dismissal as a victory for the First Amendment, stating it protects the vital role of investigative reporting.
Collection
[
|
...
]