Justice Served: A Landmark $1.2 Billion Verdict in Texas 'Revenge Porn' Lawsuit

The legal landscape has witnessed a monumental ruling that resonates with many victims of so-called “revenge porn” across the nation. Last week in Harris County, Texas, a jury awarded an astonishing $1.2 billion in damages to a woman who courageously took a stand against her former boyfriend's abuse. Here's what you need to know.

The Details of the Case

D.L., the plaintiff, initiated a lawsuit against her ex-boyfriend, Marques Jamal Jackson, accusing him of psychological and sexual abuse through the distribution of intimate images. These explicit photos and videos were shared without her consent, a severe violation often referred to as revenge porn.

The couple's relationship had ended in October 2021, but Mr. Jackson’s malice did not. He continued to misuse intimate material he had of D.L., going so far as to identify her using her name, address, and face. Creating fake social media pages and email accounts, he shared the material with her loved ones and colleagues. Even her employer and personal gym were tagged in the posts.

The lawsuit highlights continued harassment, including the use of D.L.'s personal bank account to pay his rent and false accusations to her loan officer. A chilling email from Mr. Jackson warned, “You will spend the rest of your life trying and failing to wipe yourself off the internet.”

 The Groundbreaking Verdict

The jury's verdict comprised $200 million for past and future mental anguish, along with a staggering $1 billion in punitive damages. This ruling aims to send a clear message to potential perpetrators: Emotional ruin comes with financial ruin.

Brad Gilde, the lawyer for D.L., emphasized that the judgment is not just about financial retribution; it's a societal deterrent. He hopes this case will encourage more law firms to take on such "person-versus-person" cases, despite the challenges of recovering damages.

Change in Terminology

An important note to mention is the preferred term used by advocates for survivors and lawyers like us at Ed White Law, who may represent these individuals. Instead of “revenge porn,” many now use the phrase “image-based sexual abuse.” The traditional term can inadvertently trivialize the violation and even place blame on the victim.

Moving Forward

This case is not only a victory for D.L.; it represents a milestone in the fight against image-based sexual abuse. The jury's decision has shed light on a pervasive issue and laid down a marker for future legal battles.

At Ed White Law, we applaud the courage of individuals like D.L. who step forward to seek justice. If you or someone you know has been affected by similar circumstances, our committed team of experts specializing in intellectual property and personal rights is here to assist you.

Justice, equality, and respect for the individual are not just principles; they are our mission.