On June 29, 2026, a jury returned a unanimous verdict for our client who was accused of sexually assaulting a former student. Additionally, the jury found that our client was the victim of online defamation from the former student’s father. The defamation caused the loss of reputation, business, and well-being of our client given the online posts generated immediate response from the community. The online posts began with a “TRIGGER WARNING” followed by allegations of the collection and distribution of pornography, violent threats, supplying alcohol to minors, blackmail, and sexual assault of multiple children. Although our client did not fight the case online, he did fight in court—and won.
Partner Fabiola Galguerra led a trial team consisting of herself, Senior Counsel Adam Dreher, and Paralegal Whitney Wuebben, in what amounted to two separate cases. First, the defense of our client against the false allegations of sexual assault. And second, the prosecution of claims of online defamation. The jury sided with our client on both fronts and awarded further exemplary damages.
The trial was the culmination of nearly two years of litigation within the Washtenaw County Trial Court. There were eight depositions, numerous requests for production, multiple FOIA requests, and extensive motion practice. The complexity of the case required nearly a week of testimony and two days of jury deliberation. At the conclusion, the jury was unanimous.