Kevin O’Leary Secures $2.8 Million in Defamation Verdict

Kevin O’Leary, a prominent entrepreneur and television personality, has won a defamation lawsuit against cryptocurrency influencer Ben “BitBoy” Armstrong, resulting in a substantial judgment of $2.8 million. The ruling was issued by Judge Beth Bloom of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, following Armstrong’s unfounded accusations against O’Leary, which included claims of murder.

The case stems from social media posts made by Armstrong in which he alleged that O’Leary was involved in a cover-up related to a deadly boating accident in 2019. In these posts, Armstrong publicly shared O’Leary’s personal cell phone number and encouraged others to contact him, labeling him as a “real life murderer.” Judge Bloom noted the severity of Armstrong’s actions, stating that they had significant repercussions for O’Leary both professionally and personally.

Details of the Case

The court found that Armstrong’s failure to respond substantively to the lawsuit warranted a default judgment. In her ruling, Judge Bloom emphasized the impact of Armstrong’s statements on O’Leary’s life, including increased security measures and distress from business partners concerning the false allegations. “In the weeks and months that followed, Armstrong’s posts and the disclosure of O’Leary’s phone number significantly affected him,” Judge Bloom stated.

The accusations were linked to a tragic incident in which O’Leary and his wife, Linda O’Leary, were involved in a boating accident on Lake Joseph in Muskoka, Ontario. The crash resulted in the deaths of two individuals: Gary Poltash, 64, who died at the scene, and Suzana Brito, 48, who succumbed to her injuries days later. Although Kevin O’Leary faced no charges, Linda was initially charged with careless operation of a vessel but was later exonerated after a four-week trial in 2021.

Judge Bloom awarded O’Leary approximately $78,000 in reputational damages, $750,000 for mental anguish, and $2 million in punitive damages. The court rejected Armstrong’s claims that mental health issues prevented him from responding to the lawsuit in a timely manner.

The Aftermath

O’Leary expressed that Armstrong’s defamatory statements reopened painful memories related to the boating accident. According to the judge, O’Leary’s family had believed they had moved past the trauma of the incident, but the online allegations brought back distressing reminders.

This case highlights the potential consequences of online defamation, particularly for public figures. The judgment underscores the importance of accountability in the digital age, where social media can amplify damaging claims without verification.

As O’Leary reflects on the ruling, the verdict brings closure to a tumultuous chapter in his life, allowing him to focus on his ongoing business ventures and public appearances.