Former New York City Mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has been found in contempt of court for the second time this week in connection with a defamation case involving former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss.
The latest ruling, issued Friday by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington, stems from Giuliani’s failure to comply with a court-ordered agreement to cease making defamatory statements about Freeman and Moss. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in New York found Giuliani in contempt for not providing financial information related to the $146 million judgment in the case.
During the hearing, Howell emphasized the reach of Giuliani’s platform. “You’re the most famous person in this courtroom right now… you’ve got a bigger audience and a bigger public following than anyone in this courtroom,” she said. The judge warned Rudy to be mindful of his influence.
Freeman and Moss’s attorney, Michael Gottlieb, urged the court to fine Giuliani $20,000 for each violation to deter future defamation. Giuliani’s attorney, Eden Quainton, argued against the penalty, stating it would be “excessive.” Howell questioned whether Giuliani intended to stop making defamatory remarks, calling the ongoing behavior “chilling.”
Giuliani testified about his financial situation, denying claims that he had significant legal resources at his disposal. He also acknowledged the disappearance of a valuable New York Yankees jersey autographed by Joe DiMaggio, which he had failed to turn over as part of the court-ordered asset disclosure.
Freeman and Moss sued Giuliani for his false claims that they were involved in election fraud during the 2020 presidential election. The court previously ruled in 2023 that Giuliani defamed the women. Despite his appeals, Giuliani has not fully complied with court orders.
The defamation case has already resulted in a $146 million judgment against Giuliani. He has maintained that his comments were protected by the First Amendment, a claim the court has repeatedly rejected.
