Terry

Hamilton Ward 8 Councillor Terry Whitehead was found guilty Monday morning of defamation.

Justice James Turnbull said Whitehead libeled deamalgamation advocate Roman Sarachman when he called him an “irrational liar who does not deserve the time of day” in an email copied to his council colleagues.

In his ruling, Justice Turnbull said “It is incomprehensible that an email with such comments fell within the scope of his duties as a city councillor.”

He went on to say “If the courts were to condone such conduct, the ability and willingness of average citizens to rally against policy positions of their elected representatives would be immeasurably compromised.”

Justice Turnbull ordered that Sarachman receive $15,000 in general damages.

He did not say if Sarachman’s legal costs should also be covered.

Whitehead’s legal costs and damages will be paid for by the city.