COEUR d’ALENE, Idaho — A drag performer in Idaho was awarded over $1.1 million in a defamation case against a blogger who falsely accused him of indecent exposure during a public performance. On Friday, following a five-day trial and roughly three and a half hours of deliberation, the jury reached a unanimous verdict in favor of the performer, delivering a pivotal decision on the consequences of defamation through social media.
The case centered around Eric Posey, a resident of Post Falls, who took legal action after blogger Summer Bushnell claimed he had exposed himself during a drag performance at the Coeur d’Alene City Park bandshell in June 2022. Despite Bushnell’s allegations, enhanced by a purposely edited video implying misconduct, investigations confirmed no such incident occurred. The city prosecutors ultimately declined to press charges, affirming that an unedited recording of the event showed no inappropriate exposure.
In response to the verdict, Posey expressed a heartfelt relief and gratitude for the judicial assertion of truth. The jury awarded him $926,000 in compensatory damages and an additional $250,000 in punitive damages, recognizing the deliberate nature of Bushnell’s false claims.
At the trial, Bushnell had maintained her stance that the edited video, which she had amplified via her online platforms, was precise. Nevertheless, she admitted during her testimony that she had not directly witnessed the alleged exposure she described, leading to serious questions about the veracity of her accusations.
Jeremey Lokken, who provided the edited footage to Bushnell, became a significant figure in the unraveling of the case. His modification of the video added a blur over Posey’s pelvis, a detail Bushnell used to assert her false narrative to thousands online, ultimately resulting in widespread misinformation and backlash against Posey.
Challenges posed by digital media in the perpetuation of defamation cases have become a growing concern. Unlike direct word-of-mouth slander, digital defamation has the potential to spread much faster and become entrenched in public perception before the truth can emerge. This case serves as a pointed reminder of the repercussions that can result when personal beliefs override factual reporting.
Colton Boyles, representing Bushnell, suggested during court proceedings that although Bushnell’s actions edged close to defamation, they did not necessarily cross the definitive line into illegal territory. However, the jury ultimately disagreed, influenced perhaps by the significant emotional and social toll the allegations had on Posey, who reported death threats and public harassment that transformed his daily existence.
Outside the courthouse, following the verdict, the scene was poignant; jurors personally approached Posey, offering handshakes and embraces, acknowledging the ordeal he endured. Such a gesture underscored the community’s support and the jury’s recognition of the injustice inflicted.
The North Idaho Pride Alliance, organizers of the annual Pride in the Park event where Posey performed, released a statement commending the jurors for their diligence and reiterated their commitment to the safety and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community in Northern Idaho.
This case illustrates not only the legal but also the social implications of defamation in the modern digital landscape. It highlights the critical role of integrity in personal and media-driven narratives and sets a precedent in holding accountable those who choose to ignore the facts in favor of sensationalism. Furthermore, it emphasizes the resilience and dignity of individuals like Posey, who, despite facing unwarranted adversity, continue to seek justice and support within their communities.