QUESTION
Can a wrongfully terminated police officer sue his former police chief for defamation?
Asked on Mar 13th, 2014 on Labor and Employment - California
More details to this question:
The chief made several statements in newspapers and at work saying, "the officer lied", “criminal charges may be filed against officer in the future", and "there is no tolerance for individuals like this in this department". When in fact, the statements are untrue, never proven and the officer has never been charged with any crime.
4 ANSWERS
You may sue for defamation, but you are required to prove actual damages, no speculation. These type of suits usually bring verdicts of little or no money.
Answered on Mar 13th, 2014 at 3:23 PM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
at
Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
Update Your Profile
Truth is a complete defense, and statements of opinion are not actionable. It is possible the chief crossed the line and the devil is in the details.
Answered on Mar 13th, 2014 at 2:52 PM
Possibly. Contact an attorney.
Answered on Mar 13th, 2014 at 2:08 PM
Administrative Law Attorney serving Pasadena, CA
at
License Advocates Law Group LLP
Update Your Profile
Of course the former employee can sue. Whether he can win is a very different issue. Not likely. And he should certainly be sure of his potential liabilities under California's anti-SLAPP statues before he puts himself at risk for paying the defendant Police Department's legal fees and costs.
Answered on Mar 13th, 2014 at 1:31 PM