Washington D.C. – On Friday, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was once again found in contempt of court for defying a federal judge’s orders. This is the second time in a week that Giuliani has been held in contempt, and the judge warned him that he could face jail time if he continues to spread lies about two former Georgia election workers.
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington found Giuliani in violation of court orders that prohibited him from defaming Wandrea “Shaye” Moss and her mother, Ruby Freeman. The two women had filed a defamation lawsuit against Giuliani for falsely accusing them of committing election fraud in connection with the 2020 election. The judge has ordered Giuliani to review trial testimony and other materials from the case and cautioned him that further violations could result in jail time.
Moss and Freeman’s lives were turned upside down by Giuliani’s lies, as they received racist threats and harassment. The judge, who was nominated to the bench by President Barack Obama, expressed her outrage and shame at Giuliani’s actions, stating that it was “outrageous and shameful” for him to suggest that he was the one being treated unfairly in this case.
During the hearing, Giuliani appeared to be dismissive and even chuckled as the judge explained the reasons for holding him in contempt. Prior to the hearing, Giuliani took to social media to slam the judge, calling her “bloodthirsty” and accusing her of being biased against him. He also referred to the proceedings as a “hypocritical waste of time.” After leaving the courtroom, Giuliani called the hearing a farce and criticized the judge for being “completely biased and prejudiced.”
Giuliani briefly testified during the hearing, but only to authenticate records regarding his personal finances. The judge did not impose any fines for his recent defamatory comments about the case, but she did warn him that she would impose daily fines of $200 if he does not certify within 10 days that he has complied with her order to review trial testimony and other case-related material.
In December 2023, a jury ruled in favor of Moss and Freeman and awarded them $75 million in punitive damages and an additional $73 million in other damages. This was the result of Giuliani falsely accusing them of election fraud and spreading a conspiracy theory in an attempt to keep former President Donald Trump in power after he lost the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden.
This is not the first time Giuliani has been held in contempt of court. On Monday, Judge Lewis Liman found him in contempt for failing to turn over evidence to help the judge decide whether he can keep a condominium in Palm Beach, Florida.
Giuliani, who is 80 years old, initially tried to avoid appearing in person for the hearing, citing death threats and concerns about traveling. However, he withdrew his request to appear virtually after the judge ordered him to explain if he had traveled from his Florida home in the past month.
During the defamation trial, both Moss and Freeman testified about their fear for their lives after becoming the target of Giuliani’s false conspiracy theory. Moss even shared that she changed her appearance, rarely leaves her home, and suffers from panic attacks as a result of the harassment.
It is unacceptable for someone in Giuliani’s position to abuse their power and spread falsehoods that put innocent people’s lives at risk. The judge’s actions in holding him accountable are a reminder that no one is above the law and that there are consequences for spreading lies and misinformation.
Giuliani’s actions have not only caused harm to Moss and Freeman but also further eroded trust in our democratic processes. As a former mayor and attorney for a president-elect, Giuliani should be held to a higher standard of integrity and respect for the law.
It is our hope that this ruling serves as a reminder to all public figures that their words and actions have consequences, and they must be held accountable for their actions. The judge’s firm stance against Giuliani’s lies and defamation is a step towards restoring trust and upholding justice in our society. Let this be a lesson to all who seek to spread falsehoods and manipulate the truth – the law will not tolerate it.
