October 30, 2023 at 10:46 a.m.
Jury unanimously finds Bangstad defamed Walker
After a week-long trial, an Oneida County jury has found Kirk Bangstad and his Minocqua Brewing Company committed multiple counts of defamation against Lakeland Times and Northwoods River News publisher Gregg Walker, awarding Walker one of the largest defamation awards in state history —$750,000, including $430,000 in punitive damages.
The verdict was decided unanimously by 13 jurors. Afterwards, Judge Leon Stenz granted a jury request to have their names and addresses sealed, after jurors expressed their desire not to have Bangstad know their identities and locations.
“What happens if you don’t hold Mr. Bangstad accountable today? What will he do next? What malicious lie would he begin spreading after today? Ladies and gentlemen, you have a chance to do something very important today, which should help put an end to online bullying and harassment. You can do that by sending a message.”
Walker’s attorney,
Matthew Fernholz
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