Home / Crime and Justice / Tech Exec Wins $2.75M After Breach of Silence
Tech Exec Wins $2.75M After Breach of Silence
11 Nov
Summary
- Executive awarded $2.75 million for broken confidentiality.
- Woman publicly accused executive after accepting settlement.
- Court found deliberate breach damaged executive's career.
A senior technology executive has secured a $2.75 million damages award after a US appeals court upheld a ruling against a woman who violated a confidential settlement. The case, Michael Fitzgerald, et al v. Ronda McNae, involved a $97,000 payment made by Fitzgerald to McNae, with both parties agreeing to maintain strict privacy regarding the settlement details.
Despite accepting the payment, McNae later contacted Fitzgerald's employers and made public accusations, including claims of sexual assault. Fitzgerald argued these actions deliberately harmed his career and reputation, leading to a lawsuit for breach of contract. The lower court found McNae had seriously violated the agreement's terms.
The significant damages include $2 million for harm to Fitzgerald's professional reputation, accounting for an estimated five to six years needed to rebuild his standing and associated salary losses. An additional $746,703.27 covers economic losses, including the initial settlement, lost incentives, bonuses, and performance units.
McNae appealed the award, arguing it was excessive, but the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals rejected her arguments. The court found no clear error in the damages calculation, affirming the lower court's decision that the evidence fully supported the $2,746,703.27 judgment against her.
