Cajun Navy 2016, a disaster relief organization, has filed a defamation lawsuit against the United Cajun Navy and its leaders, alleging a multiyear campaign of false statements that harmed its reputation and interfered with emergency operations.
Background
The lawsuit, filed in the 19th Judicial District Court, names the United Cajun Navy, President Todd Terrell, and Vice President Brian Thrasher as defendants. According to the filing, the defendants repeatedly published misleading and untrue claims on social media and public channels, questioning the legitimacy and integrity of Cajun Navy 2016.
The nonprofit claims the statements discouraged donors and volunteers while creating unnecessary confusion during natural disasters. Jon Bridgers, CEO and founder of Cajun Navy 2016, stated that the organization’s reputation is crucial when lives are at risk.
The lawsuit alleges the defendants engaged in a deliberate effort to mislead the public rather than offering protected criticism. Cajun Navy 2016 is seeking damages authorized under state law, alongside injunctive and declaratory relief to halt further defamatory conduct.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
