Fayetteville, NC — In a notable legal conclusion emerging from Cumberland County Superior Court on Tuesday, a jury awarded a nominal $100 in damages at the end of a defamation lawsuit involving two former directors of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival. This legal battle attracted attention due to its focus on accusations made through social media.
The dispute centered on Malia Allen, who managed the festival from 2018 to 2020, and her predecessor Carrie King, who held the position from 2006 to 2018. The controversy began after Allen released several videos on TikTok and other platforms in March 2024, which allegedly defamed King.
After deliberations, the jury found that the videos posted by Allen were indeed defamatory; however, they decided on only a symbolic monetary award. According to King’s attorney, Jonathan Strange, the decision for minimal damages was requested because the videos were briefly online and the impact on King’s professional reputation was minor.
King, still active in the event planning and festival industry, appears to have maintained her professional standing despite the accusations. Strange highlighted her ongoing success and capabilities within the sector, which suggested that the videos had limited effect on her career trajectory. Nevertheless, King is seeking $10,000 in attorney fees, a matter still pending before Superior Court Judge Doug Green.
Allen, who represented herself in court, interpreted the minimal damage award as a form of victory, seeing it as affirmation from the jury that her statements did not warrant a severe financial penalty. She expressed satisfaction with the jury’s decision not to award punitive damages, interpreting it as a validation of her perspective.
This legal altercation followed a March 2024 news exposé by “CityView,” which detailed financial troubles within the Dogwood Festival organization, prompting Allen’s critical commentary on social media about the festival’s management and her tenure as director.
The festival, a cultural staple since the early 1980s, transforms downtown Fayetteville every April, attracting thousands with its music, vendors, and entertainment. It’s managed by the nonprofit Dogwood Festival Inc., with a combination of a volunteer board and a paid executive director, and it also features additional events throughout the year, including a fall festival and summer concerts.
During the trial, the jury reviewed several of Allen’s videos and weighed charges that she had made multiple false allegations against King. The proceedings led to a court order against Allen to prevent her from making further false public statements about King.
Describing her courtroom experience, Allen felt that self-representation might have hindered her ability to adequately present her case and suggested that professional legal representation might have led to a complete dismissal of the charges. She reflected on the challenges of articulating her defense under the stress of trial, hinting at significant evidence that was not presented effectively.
The legal drama underscored not only personal disputes between past festival leaders but also hinted at broader organizational challenges. As the dust settles on this particular case, Fayetteville’s notable event continues to be a focal point of community pride despite the behind-the-scenes complexities.
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