Infamous “Girls Gone Wild” founder, Joe Francis, is once again on the losing end of the docket. The California 2nd District Court of Appeals ruled against Francis in his appeal of a recent $19 million judgment.
In 2012, casino mogul Steve Wynn, took Francis to court claiming slander. The dispute arose from Francis’ statements on “Good Morning America,” where he claimed Wynn threatened to hit him in the head with a shovel and have him buried over a past debt. Wynn argued that Francis’ statements damaged his reputation and put his casino license at risk.
The jury awarded Wynn a $40 million judgment and an injunction to restrain Francis from continuing to make such statements. The judge then reduced the judgment amount to $19 million. On Monday, the appeals court upheld the judgment amount and injunction finding Francis’ statements to be defamatory.
Wynn’s attorney Mitchell Langberg was pleased with the result stating:
“We will continue to assist Mr. Wynn and Wynn Las Vegas as they vigorously pursue Francis to collect all of his debts to them, including this $19 million judgment.”
Francis expressed his intent to appeal and confidence that it will be a success.
Court upholds $19M verdict against ‘Girls Gone Wild’ founder in case by Vegas mogul Steve Wynn