Richmond v. Thompson

Dr. Woodrow Thompson appeals from a jury verdict in favor of Washington State Patrol Trooper Davis Richmond in Trooper Richmond’s action for defamation. Dr. Thompson contends (1) his complaints about Trooper Richmond to various public officials and agencies should be absolutely privileged under state and federal constitutional guaranties and under the common law, (2) a law enforcement officer’s action for defamation should require proof of actual physical or pecuniary injury, (3) each element of such an action must be proven by clear and convincing evidence, and (4) Trooper Richmond failed to…