One more reason for tort reform?

Back in the 2010 election cycle, in one of the Voter Suppression States, an assistant attorney general of Michigan  took it on himself to try and delegitimize the election of a a gay University of Michigan student as student body president.

     Andrew Shirvell put up a blog, posted things about Christopher Armstrong on Facebook, and followed him around. He accused Armstrong of "of enticing minors with alcohol and recruiting people to become homosexual." "Shirvell would also blog about Armstrong participating in sexual acts on children’s playgrounds, churches and hosted gay orgies sessions. Deborah Gordon, Armstrong’s attorney, told ABC that Shirvell showed up at Armstrong’s house several times and one time, called the police to report a party Armstrong attended then Shirvell blogged that the police raided a sex party that went out of control." Just for good measure, Shirvell declared Armstrong was a “radical homosexual activist, racist, elitist and liar.” He also took part in Westboro ("God Hates Fags") Baptist Church anti-gay demonstrations, focusing on Armstrong and called the UM student “Satan’s representative on the student assembly” and a “privileged pervert.”

     Shirvell contended his goal was to force Armstrong to resign his post at the University., and claimed that his harassment was justified as an exercise of free speech.

     Waldo didn't think much of Shirvell's campaign and linked to his blog, "The Chris Armstrong Watch". Shirvell has since locked the blog so it can only be read by invitation.

     Armstrong sued Shirvell for defamation, invasion of privacy and stalking. Shirvell called no witnesses, defended himself, and said everything he said and did was true or protected speech.

     The federal court jury disagreed, and awarded Armstrong $4.5 million. His attorney reported he'd have dropped the suit in return for a retraction and apology. Shirvell, who was representing himself, said the jury award was "grossly excessive" for what was "clearly protected speech ... and activity. This should have been thrown out," he said, adding that he plans to appeal. "Juries give short shrift to First Amendment rights."

No, he's not the gay one.

     Shirvell, unemployed since being fired by the Michigan Attorney General, says he can't possibly pay such a large judgment. One place he could send a c.v. is here. It seems a perfect fit.