A trial is underway in the defamation lawsuit brought against conspiracy theorist and media personality, Alex Jones. The trial, which is taking place in Austin, TX, has drawn national attention and extensive media coverage.
As the trial continues, the Associated Press recently published a story that examines how the First Amendment and free speech factor into Alex Jones’ case. Attorney Barry N. Covert spoke with the Associated Press’ Legal Affairs Writer, Michael Tarm, to provide legal analysis for this story.
The defamation lawsuit was brought against Alex Jones by parents of one of the student victims in the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Alex Jones made comments that the shooting was a hoax, which prompted the defamation lawsuit.
In its “EXPLAINER” article, the Associated Press examines how this defamation case relates to the First Amendment, by addressing several questions, including:
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An $8.1 million lawsuit filed by the New York State Thruway Authority, against five companies involved in a wind turbine project, was recently dismissed by a New York State Supreme Court Judge. The motion to dismiss was filed by attorney Joseph J. Manna, who represents the project’s general contractor, Kandey Company.
Numerous media outlets reported on the dismissal of the Thruway Authority’s lawsuit in New York State Supreme Court. Joseph Manna spoke with The Buffalo New and WGRZ 2 On Your Side to provide insight for their coverage of the case. Continue reading for a summary of what led to the Thruway Authority’s wind turbine lawsuit being dismissed and click the video below to watch WGRZ’s report on the case, which includes an interview with Mr. Manna.
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Legal Analysis on the Arrest and Resignation of New York Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin
New York State Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin resigned from his office after being arrested on fraud and bribery charges.
WGRZ 2 On Your Side’s coverage on the story included an interview with attorney Barry N. Covert. Mr. Covert provided legal analysis that included: a review of the specific charges Brian Benjamin faces, the potential penalties if Benjamin is found guilty of the charges, and whether circumstances involved in the terms of Brian Benjamin’s bail in this case forced him to resign as New York State’s Lieutenant Governor.
WGRZ reports that federal prosecutors accused Brian Benjamin of being part of a campaign finance scheme. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York outlined the case against Brian Benjamin, which stated that Benjamin accepted campaign contributions from a real estate developer in exchange for a state grant that was given to that business. In their report, WGRZ quoted Barry Covert as stating “The laws on raising campaign funds and identifying where the money comes from are very strict. But, it is not clear how strong the case of proof is against Benjamin.”
Continuing reading for excerpts of Barry Covert’s discussion with WGRZ anchors Scott Levin and Maryalice Demler. Click the videos below to watch WGRZ’s full report on this case, which includes Mr. Covert’s legal analysis.
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