Supreme Court Denies Alex Jones’ Appeal of $1.4 Billion Defamation Judgment in Sandy Hook Case
The United States Supreme Court has upheld a $1.4 billion defamation judgment against Alex Jones, thereby rejecting his appeal. This decision stems from Jones’ false claims about the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting being a hoax. The tragic shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, resulted in the deaths of 20 first graders and six educators.
Supreme Court Denies Appeal
Without seeking input from the families involved, the justices dismissed Jones’ argument against the claimed infliction of emotional distress. An FBI agent present at the shooting also pursued legal action against Jones.
Financial Repercussions
- Jones declared bankruptcy in late 2022.
- His lawyers claim it is improbable for the plaintiffs to collect the full amount.
- Jones is challenging a separate $49 million defamation judgment in Texas.
Legal Proceedings and Judgments
In the Connecticut case, Jones received a rare default ruling in late 2021. The judge blamed his consistent failure to adhere to court orders and provide necessary documents. Following this, a jury determined Jones’ financial liability to be $964 million, later adding $473 million in punitive damages. These fines target Jones and Free Speech Systems, the parent company of Infowars.
Liquidation Efforts
Attempts to auction Infowars’ assets to settle the defamation judgments involved a noteworthy bid from The Onion. However, a bankruptcy judge nullified the auction due to process issues. Consequently, these efforts continue in a Texas state court in Austin. Concurrently, a receiver has been appointed to liquidate Jones’ personal assets.
