(La Porte County, IN) - There’s more back and forth to report involving a La Porte County official being sued.  La Porte County Auditor Tim Stabosz has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit filed by La Porte County Attorney Shaw Friedman.

 

The defamation suit was filed after Stabosz claimed Friedman basically ran La Porte County government and had undue influence over elected officials so he could benefit financially from being County Attorney.  County Attorney is a position appointed annually by the La Porte County Commissioners.

 

In his request for dismissal, Stabosz argued his words were protected under the U.S. Constitution which gives every citizen the right to criticize a public person.

 

William Jonas, who is representing Friedman in the case, said speech alleging professional misconduct and criminal wrongdoing are not protected, though, because the claims are false.  “Mr. Friedman has served the people of La Porte County honorably as County Attorney and we intend to vigorously pursue these claims against Mr. Stabosz".

 

Stabosz said his motion to dismiss, if granted, would prove he’s correct in his allegations without having to go to trial.  Stabosz also said the comments are not defamatory, if true, and he has the proof his description of Friedman’s activities is accurate.  “The best defense in a defamation case is the truth and I have the truth on my side.  I have no concerns whatsoever about this,” he said.