One can’t help but notice that on many of the blogs, comments and posts that appear online pertaining to Ed Magedson, the oft-maligned founder of the consumer complaints website Ripoff Report, statements are made (often vehemently) that Ed is a “wanted man” or “under Federal indictment.”

Based on the repetitive wording of the claims the writers seem to be repeating things that they must have read elsewhere online. Proof of these claims, or even links to pertinent court records seem elusive. Personally I found that the assertions lacked credibility – in that the FBI would have little difficulty locating almost anyone (unless they be a Whitey Bulger.)

So it was illuminating to read that in a recent Arizona Court of Appeals decision on a count of defamation against Ed, the court wrote that the purported originator of these allegations had in fact stated in an earlier deposition that they were not true.

“Magedson supports his argument for actual malice with Brewington’s admission in a deposition that he knew Magedson was not wanted by the F.B.I. and he knew Magedson was not a criminal on the run”

Quoted from ¶41 found on page nineteen of the Memorandum Decision found here:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/76608180/Xcentric-Ventures-v-John-F-Brewington-Arizona-Court-of-Appeals-Opinion

Whilst I am in no position to offer anyone legal advice, it would seem wise for those who have been repeating and re-broadcasting these claims to review the court document with a view to revising their position.

Remember folks “Of course it must be true. I read it on the Internet. In LOTS of places.” is not a very effective affirmative defense.

Tagged as: defamation, Ed Magedson, Ripoff Report, ripoffreport

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