Home / Crime and Justice / Canadians Win Landmark $56 Million Defamation Lawsuit in Hawaii
Canadians Win Landmark $56 Million Defamation Lawsuit in Hawaii
6 Nov
Summary
- A Hawaii jury awarded over C$56 million in damages to three Canadians.
- The award stems from a defamation case involving online harassment.
- The case involved accusations of child abuse, pedophilia support, and black magic.
A Hawaii jury has awarded more than C$56 million in damages to three Canadians from Saskatchewan. The substantial award comes after the jury found that an online spiritual teacher, Liane Wilson, operating as Liana Shanti, defamed them through an alleged online harassment campaign.
The verdict followed a four-year legal dispute. The jury rejected Wilson's initial accusations of defamation against the Canadians and instead found her liable for defaming them with allegations of child abuse, supporting paedophiles, and practicing black magic. This ruling is recognized as one of the largest civil damages verdicts in Hawaii's history.
Although not former members of Wilson's online community, the Canadians became targets due to their connections with former followers. These former students reported being coerced into dependency and having personal information used against them when they attempted to leave or question Wilson's practices. Some were warned that Canada was becoming dangerous, leading some to relocate to Florida, only to later return.
The substantial damages awarded may help the Canadians recoup significant legal expenses, which exceeded C$600,000 for one individual. One couple was forced to sell their home to cover these costs. Wilson has stated her intention to appeal the verdict, while declining requests for an interview.
