$25 Million Libel Verdict Shocks Legal and Media Experts: Oklahoman Misidentifies Announcer in Racist Rant Case
NORMAN, Oklahoma – A recent $25 million libel verdict against the Gannett-owned Oklahoman has left media and legal experts puzzled. The jury awarded damages to announcer Scott Sapulpa after the newspaper misidentified him as the person responsible for a racist rant during a state girls’ basketball tournament three years ago. The large sum of money awarded has raised questions about the jury’s decision. Norman attorney Stan Ward expressed concerns that the jury may have exceeded the legal boundaries with their significant damages award. Oklahoma does not impose a limit on jury awards for defamation cases, … Read more