[2elijah]

Written defamation of character is tort. Oral defamation is slander.
Internet forums are held to the same standard as newspapers, radio
or tv. Contrary to popular belief, malicious intent does not have to
be proven. Negligence is sufficient to win a libel tort case. Within the
topic being discussed, blatantly stating a punch was thrown when the
evidence reveals that no punch was thrown could constitute negligence.
If negligence can be established, the coach could be awarded damages
congruent with the damage such libel might inflict upon the coach's
ability to earn a living. However, merely stating an opinion as to the
possible consequences of a Possibly thrown punch would be a much weaker
case.


I had promised myself to bow out of these gossip columns. But this is
the only local forum for basketball, and the subject needs an injection
of facts. Here is hoping that replies to my post will not address residential
dorms or robbing local boys of playing time.