Judge tosses slander suit against Hattiesburg officials
GULFPORT, Miss. (AP) – A Forrest County judge heard the evidence in a slander suit against Hattiesburg officials, then ruled that there was nothing for jurors to consider.
The Hattiesburg American reports that testimony lasted nearly a week, and Judge Michael Ward took about two hours Friday to dismiss the case.
Former city court clerk Sharon Marks sued the city, Mayor Johnny DuPree and the five City Council members in 2013.
She claimed she was slandered by statements that she used her office for private gain and helped criminals, favored relatives, and improperly charged fees. She also said she’d been wrongfully deprived of her job.
The city said she’d lost it for misconduct and negligence.
Hattiesburg attorney Clark Hicks said Mark may appeal to the Mississippi Supreme Court.
Her attorney, Kim Chaze, did not immediately answer a request for comment emailed Sunday.
