#actual-malice

#actual-malice

Trump Media and Technology Group, the parent company of Truth Social, has dropped its defamation claim against the Guardian and two other defendants regarding a report on federal investigations into $8 million in payments.

The evidence showed a killing without any provocation, done in broad daylight, with many bystanders in close proximity. This was a brazen, targeted killing. As I presided over both trials in this matter, I did hear first-hand the details of the crime.

"It is distressing to realise - having seen the evidence and disclosure provided by Associated - that, like other newspapers, Associated targeted me as well as others using unlawful means and the use of private investigators for the purposes of their own profit. "The fact that they have remained completely unapologetic for this illegal behaviour is also distressing."

Prosecutors alleged intimidation tactics by defense attorneys resulted in two victims backing out of taking the stand. On Friday, the government referenced their earlier accusation of defense attorneys of hiring an investigator to pose as an insurance agent in January and talk to neighbors of a woman planning to testify, including asking about her minor children.

One of the most dramatic cases involves Larry Bushart, a retired police officer in Lexington, Tenn, according to NPR. A self-described progressive and "keyboard warrior," he posted memes that mocked Republican officials' mourning over Kirk. He was arrested by local police at the request of Sheriff Nick Weems of Perry County, Tenn. Prosecutors later dropped the charges, and Bushart is now suing, represented by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.

Manhattan Federal Judge Alvin Hellerstein, who reserved decision, appeared unswayed by Trump's position, saying he'd sought two bites at the apple by first trying in state court to get his conviction tossed on account of the Supreme Court's July 2024 decision on presidential immunity and, when that didn't work, refocusing efforts in federal court. The judge said the strategy led Trump to miss the 30-day window to raise the matter federally, without a good cause excuse.