Abofreka v. Alston Tobacco Co.

Ness, Chief Justice:

This is an action for libel brought by respondent Abofreka against appellants alleging damage to his reputation as the result of a memorandum posted on the premises of appellant Marnat Packing Company. The jury awarded Abofreka actual and punitive damages. We affirm in part and reverse in part.

Abofreka is a medical doctor specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, and he treated many Marnat employees or family members. Marnat provided group health insurance benefits to its employees through the appellant Diamond G Employee Benefit Plan.

Abofreka filed two insurance claims…