For the second time this week, Rudy Giuliani was found in contempt of court on Friday by a federal judge for continuing to spread falsehoods about two former Georgia election workers, following a defamation judgment of $148 million against him. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington, D.C., ruled that Giuliani violated court orders prohibiting him from defaming Wandrea “Shaye” Moss and Ruby Freeman. She instructed him to review trial testimony and other case materials, cautioning that further violations could lead to potential jail time.
Moss and Freeman had sued Giuliani for defamation after he falsely accused them of election fraud in relation to the 2020 election, resulting in racist threats and harassment that disrupted their lives. Prior to the hearing, Giuliani criticized the judge on social media, labeling her as “bloodthirsty” and biased against him, dismissing the proceedings as a “hypocritical waste of time.”
During the hearing, Giuliani smirked and laughed as the judge explained her decision to hold him in contempt, with Howell chastising him for suggesting that he was the victim in the case. Following the judge’s ruling, Giuliani questioned the timing of her decision and expressed disbelief at the rapidity of her judgment.
Despite not being fined for his recent defamatory remarks, Giuliani was warned that daily fines of $200 would be imposed if he failed to confirm within 10 days that he had complied with the order to review case-related materials. Giuliani continued to criticize the judge as he left the courtroom, declaring the proceedings a “farce” and accusing her of bias.
In December 2023, a jury awarded the Black mother and daughter $75 million in punitive damages and approximately $73 million in other damages after Giuliani persistently spread false claims about them, despite being informed that his allegations were baseless and harmful. Giuliani’s lawyers argued that he acted in good faith and should not be held in contempt for his comments on alleged election irregularities.
On a separate note, in New York, Giuliani was found in contempt of court by Judge Lewis Liman for failing to provide evidence relevant to another case.
Former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, 80, is facing legal challenges in a West Palm Beach, Florida, condominium. Giuliani recently testified in a Manhattan courtroom on January 3, overseen by Judge Kimba Wood, in a case involving allegations of withholding evidence. In his testimony, Giuliani admitted that he had not fully complied with document requests, citing concerns that the scope of the requests was overly broad and potentially designed to ensnare him.
Giuliani, a prominent figure in Republican circles and a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, expressed apprehension about potential travel-related risks to his health and safety. He disclosed that he has received death threats and has been advised to exercise caution while traveling. Despite these concerns, Giuliani informed the court through a legal filing that he would attend an upcoming hearing, presided over by Judge Beryl Howell, even though he had reservations about the situation.
In his filing, Giuliani expressed disappointment that his concerns were not adequately addressed by the court, stating, “I had hoped the Court would understand and accommodate my needs. However, it appears I was mistaken.” This sentiment underscores Giuliani’s belief that his well-being and security should be taken into consideration as the legal proceedings unfold.
During the trial, witnesses Moss and Freeman shared their experiences of feeling threatened and fearing for their lives due to their involvement in a fabricated conspiracy theory propagated by Giuliani and other Republicans. This false narrative aimed to undermine the results of the 2020 presidential election, in which Joe Biden emerged victorious over Trump. Moss recounted adjusting her appearance, restricting her movements, and grappling with panic attacks as a result of the ordeal.
Freeman, another witness in the trial, emphasized that financial compensation would not resolve the challenges she now faces. She lamented the loss of her sense of security and normalcy, expressing the sentiment that she can never fully return to her former life. The emotional toll of the situation is evident in Freeman’s statement to reporters following the jury’s verdict: “Money will never solve all my problems. I can never move back into the house that I call home. I will always have to be careful about where I go and who I choose to share my name with. I miss my home. I miss my neighbors, and I miss my name.”
The legal battle involving Giuliani and the plaintiffs underscores the far-reaching consequences of misinformation and conspiracy theories in today’s political landscape. As the proceedings continue, the testimonies of witnesses Moss and Freeman shed light on the personal toll of being caught in the crossfire of such narratives, emphasizing the importance of accountability and truth in the pursuit of justice.
