On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, The Pine Bluff Commercial reported that a high-profile defamation lawsuit is unfolding in the Jefferson County Circuit Court, involving notable local officials. The case has led to the recusal of several judges, with retired Circuit Judge Bentley Story assigned to oversee the proceedings.
The lawsuit, filed in November, features Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson and several affiliates as plaintiffs against Justice of the Peace Lloyd Franklin II, who is representing himself. The plaintiffs include prominent figures such as Robert Daniels, Joni Alexander-Robinson, and Rickey Bullard, who allege that Franklin has made defamatory statements that have harmed their reputations.
At the heart of the lawsuit are accusations made by Franklin in a letter dated July 8, 2024, to the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee. The plaintiffs assert that Franklin’s claims were made with malicious intent and reckless disregard for the truth. They are seeking damages and an injunction to prevent Franklin from making further statements that they allege are false and damaging.
The plaintiffs’ accusations against Franklin include several serious allegations. They claim that Franklin accused Judge Robinson of corruption and misappropriation of county funds for personal gain, as well as engaging in extortion and fraud. Additionally, Franklin purportedly accused Robinson of establishing a banking relationship with FBT Bank that benefited himself and his wife, and of purchasing a county bus below its fair market value.
Franklin’s allegations extend to other plaintiffs as well. He reportedly claimed that Daniels concealed the purchase of a county truck and that Bullard misused county resources for personal projects, including building his home. Furthermore, Franklin alleged that Dee Brown’s company, P3 Group, received over $14 million in construction and management fees due to an improper relationship with Robinson.
The lawsuit also touches on claims of illegal campaign contributions and nepotism, with Franklin asserting that Robinson accepted illegal contributions and that a relative of Robinson received excessive payments for janitorial services due to their connection.
In defense of his actions, Franklin issued a comprehensive response, arguing that his statements were made in good faith and within the scope of his duties as an elected official. He contends that the lawsuit is a “strategic lawsuit against public participation” (SLAPP), intended to silence him for exposing alleged misconduct. Franklin maintains that his statements were based on substantial factual evidence and were made to appropriate oversight authorities.
Franklin’s defense further asserts that he is immune from defamation claims for actions taken in his official capacity. He argues that the statements he made were substantially true or based on credible reports, and that his actions were privileged due to their relevance to public concern. He denies any malicious intent, claiming that any reputational damage suffered by the plaintiffs stems from their own actions.
Additionally, Franklin has filed counterclaims against the plaintiffs, alleging that they are abusing the judicial process to hinder him from fulfilling his public responsibilities. He warns that allowing the lawsuit to move forward could create a chilling effect on public officials who report potential misconduct.
As the case progresses, Franklin is requesting that the court dismiss the plaintiffs’ claims entirely. He is also seeking an award for reasonable attorney’s fees and court costs, along with a declaratory judgment affirming that his actions were lawful and within the bounds of his official duties.
Source: The Pine Bluff Commercial
