Defamation Dispute: Friends of Nolan Wells Demand Apology from Rev. Al Sharpton
A presuit demand letter was sent to Rev. Al Sharpton by attorneys representing three friends of Nolan Wells, demanding an apology and retraction of defamatory statements made by Sharpton about the friends. The letter alleges that Sharpton implied the friends were involved in Wells' death and obstructed the investigation. Sharpton responded by welcoming a lawsuit and stating that his attorneys would be in touch. Wells, an 18-year-old Black teen, died during a Fourth of July trip to Horn Island, leading to speculation and threats due to photos of him with White friends.
The attorneys' letter presents the friends' version of events, stating that they were not involved in Wells' disappearance or death and did not possess or access his phone. They also deny withholding or altering his phone or concealing his keys. The letter cites Sharpton's comments during a TMZ appearance and an online vigil, where he raised questions about the friends' actions and the phone and keys not being immediately relinquished.
Despite the lack of concrete answers about Wells' cause of death, the attorneys demand that Sharpton publicly apologize, retract his statements, and delete them within 10 days. They warn of litigation if Sharpton does not comply. The friends' father organized a fundraiser to help them with potential legal expenses and to address alleged slander and libel. Sharpton has emphasized the need for a transparent investigation to find the truth about what happened to Wells.
The attorneys argue that Sharpton's remarks constitute defamation under Mississippi law and demand that he apologize, retract, and stop repeating the statements. They also request corrections to be published and documented. Sharpton has expressed willingness to face litigation and have everyone involved in the case answer questions under oath. The letter from the attorneys comes after Sharpton welcomed the possibility of being sued during a conference event.