Free Speech Isn't Free for Yelp Reviewer

An internet flame war had real-world consequences for the Virginia woman whose contractor sued her for her bad reviews on Angie's List and Yelp.

An internet flame war had real-world consequences for the Virginia woman whose contractor sued her for her bad reviews on Angie’s List and Yelp.

Dietz Development filed a $750,000 lawsuit against Jane Perez after she alleged that the contractor had trespassed on her property, damaged her home, and even stolen her jewelry. “Bottom line do not put yourself through this nightmare of a contractor,” she wrote.

Owner Christopher Dietz said the review damaged his company’s reputation, costing his company $300,000 in lost business.

Judge Thomas FortKort sided

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