Ammon Bundy Hints at Retaliation Following Defamation Suit Loss
ICARO Media Group
In a recent YouTube livestream, anti-government extremist Ammon Bundy hinted at potential retaliation against those involved in a defamation lawsuit that resulted in a multi-million dollar judgment against him. Bundy, known for leading the 2016 occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon and his 2022 Idaho gubernatorial campaign, expressed frustration over the court's decision and the impact it has had on his family.
The lawsuit was filed by St. Luke's Regional Health in Boise, ID, against Bundy and his associate Diego Rodriguez. It stemmed from Rodriguez's claims that his infant grandson was taken from the family under false pretenses of alleged malnourishment, which he referred to as a "kidnapping" by individuals involved in "child trafficking." Bundy, in turn, urged his followers to protest at the hospital and the homes of child protective service employees.
As a result of the lawsuit, Bundy was ordered to pay $6.2 million in compensatory damages and $6.15 million in punitive damages. Rodriguez, on the other hand, was ordered to pay $7 million in compensatory damages and $6.5 million in punitive damages. Additionally, the court ruled that the remaining amount be collected from Bundy's affiliated organizations - the People's Rights Network, Freedom Man Press, and the Bundy campaign for governor.
During his YouTube livestream, Bundy claimed that his wife and son's bank accounts had been depleted, and he lost his Idaho home due to the court's actions to collect the damages. He criticized the civil award as "illegitimate" and expressed growing resentment towards those involved. In a veiled threat, Bundy stated, "I'm doing everything I can not to just retaliate against these people," suggesting he might be reaching his limit of restraint.
Bundy further expressed his frustration with the justice system, claiming that fighting within the "corrupt courts" was futile. Instead, he voiced a desire to take matters into his own hands by going to the homes of those involved and demanding the return of his son.
It is important to note that Bundy's statements and veiled threats raise concerns regarding potential violent actions or disturbances. It remains to be seen how these developments will unfold and whether any legal action will be taken in response to Bundy's comments.
The Anti-Defamation League has previously characterized Bundy as an individual who believes in the complete and total control of one's life and property. With his recent statements, Bundy's intentions and actions are being closely watched by authorities and those concerned about public safety.
As this situation continues to develop, it underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the limits of free speech, the potential consequences of extremist ideology, and the need for effective measures to address and prevent acts of violence or retaliation.