Kono v. Meeker [1]

In May 2003, Dana Kono sued Lawrence and Carole Meeker in Iowa state court for defamation, false light invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. After an acrimonious business dispute between the Meekers and Kono over a botched exchange of antique mechanical devices, the Meekers published a page on their website called the "Dana Kono Watch page." According to the Court of Appeals decision in the litigation, the Meekers' webpage stated that Kono was an "admitted liar," said that Kono "has a problem with the truth, with facts, and it seems with alcohol," and made other statements accusing Kono of being a disreputable person. The Meekers also posted excerpts from their email communications with Kono.

Kono sued, arguing that the statements on the Meekers' site were false and defamatory. The case went to trial, and the jury awarded Kono $500,000, including $150,000 for defamation, $50,000 for invasion of privacy, $50,000 for intentional infliction of emotional distress, and $125,000 in punitive damages. The Meekers appealed, and the Court of Appeals of Iowa affirmed the jury verdict on all counts.