LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – A Louisville DJ has filed a defamation suit against Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control, claiming its director defamed him by linking him to violence that occurred when he performed at a local bar.
Jerry Mangrum Jr., known as DJ Lil Jerry, was a regular at Baxter’s 942 Bar & Grill before it was denied a renewal last month to sell alcohol because of recent shootings in the area.
As part of the reason for the rejection, Alcoholic Beverage Control Director Brad Silveria wrote in reply to the application that four shootings occurred on nights Mangrum performed and the bar should have known the dangers associated with hiring the performer.
In his lawsuit, filed in Jefferson Circuit Court on Thursday, Mangrum claims the statements about him "were made with knowing or reckless disregard for the truth."
The lawsuit accused Silveria of wrongly impugning Mangrum’s character and argues the false statements have subjected him to "public ridicule, scorn, and contempt."
The suit is seeking a jury trial and unspecified monetary damages.
Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control officials could not immediately be reached for comment.Â
This story may be updated.Â
Related News:
- DJ named in Louisville bar's liquor license revocation 'shocked' he's linked to violence
- Owner of Baxter Avenue bar calls liquor license denial 'absolutely insulting'
- Highlands nightclub Baxter's 942 denied renewal to serve alcohol by city of Louisville
- Neighbors call for more safety measures amid violence surrounding Louisville's bar scene
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