"A University of Florida horticulture professor known for his scientific defense of genetically modified foods lost his defamation suit against journalist Eric Lipton and the New York Times for describing his close relationships with biotech giants including Monsanto.
Chief U.S. Judge Mark E. Walker of the Northern District of Florida in Tallahassee Wednesday granted the motion for summary judgment filed by Lipton and the Times and directed the clerk of courts to file it dismissed with prejudice. No hearing was held.
Summary judgment is appropriately granted when “the movant shows that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law,” Walker said.
In his ruling, Walker reaffirmed Florida's 'fair report' privilege for journalists and the state's public records laws."
Jeffrey Schweers reports for the Tallahassee Democrat February 28, 2019.
SEE ALSO:
"UF Professor’s Suit Against NYT Reporter Dismissed" (Gainesville Sun)
"Food Industry Enlisted Academics in G.M.O. Lobbying War, Emails Show" (New York Times)
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