Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt of Court in Defamation Case Against Georgia Election Workers

WASHINGTON — A federal judge on Friday held Rudy Giuliani, former personal lawyer to Donald Trump, in contempt of court in the ongoing defamation case involving Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. This marks Giuliani’s second contempt ruling in the same week, following another for his failure to provide financial documents as ordered.

U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, presiding over the case in Washington, cited Giuliani’s repeated false claims against the mother-daughter duo, which led to a torrent of death threats and ultimately forced them from their jobs and homes. Howell condemned Giuliani’s actions, stating he had engaged in “the worst kind of defamation” by falsely accusing Freeman and Moss of election fraud during the 2020 presidential election.

Judge’s Orders to Giuliani

In her ruling, Judge Howell ordered Giuliani to submit a sworn declaration within 10 days. This declaration must confirm:

•He has reviewed all the evidence in the case, including testimony from Freeman and Moss.

•He and his attorneys were provided opportunities to attend depositions.

•He acknowledges that the sworn testimony from the plaintiffs disproves his claims of election fraud.

Failure to comply will result in Giuliani facing a $200 daily fine, with the judge reserving the right to increase the penalty after 30 days. Further violations could escalate to jail time.

Response from Giuliani’s Team

Ted Goodman, a spokesperson for Giuliani, criticized the ruling, claiming it was an attempt to stifle the former mayor’s constitutional rights.

This latest contempt ruling underscores the mounting legal challenges Giuliani faces as courts continue to scrutinize his role in advancing baseless election fraud claims following the 2020 election.

The defamation case stems from Giuliani’s public accusations that Freeman and Moss were involved in fraudulent ballot manipulation, a claim thoroughly debunked by election officials and investigators. Both Freeman and Moss testified to the devastating personal and professional toll of Giuliani’s false allegations during a January 6 House Select Committee hearing in 2022.

With this week’s developments, Giuliani’s legal troubles show no signs of abating, as his refusal to comply with court orders raises the stakes in the high-profile defamation case.