The Cal Coast News lost a $1.1 million libel suit over a story alleging illegal activity committed by a hazardous waste contractor. The newspaper said their witnesses, anonymous sources, could not testify since they had died or lived outside the area. The jury ruled 11-1 on actual damages and 10-2 on punitive damages. (The Tribune, March 16, 2017, by Matt Fountain)
The newspaper’s owner Karen Velie said that the publication would continue online and would appeal the verdict. (The Tribune, March 17, 2017, by Matt Fountain)
A journalist professor testifying for the plaintiff said in reading the story she could find no proof of the allegations. The contractor said the article was so damaging that he had to shut down the business. (The New York Times, March 20, 2017, by Mike McPhate)