A federal appeals court rejected a suit filed by NRA lobbyist, Marion Hammer, against a California attorney that sent her graphic images via email of gunshot wounds in the wake of the Parkland shooting.
Hammer argued the lawyer violated cyberstalking, harassment, and intentional infliction of distress laws of Florida.
The appeals court concluded Hammer did not provide enough evidence that the laws were violated.
The court said Sorensen’s emails, which were “clearly intended to dissuade Hammer from continuing to support the availability of assault rifles,” had a legitimate purpose.
The court affirmed the photos sent were meant as part of a debate, therefore were not outrageous. The ruling stated that similar images are shown in movies and television all the time.
But the judge said the lawyer's messages were protected by the First Amendment and that Hammer was not entitled to damages.