Yahoo News Johnny Depp loses legal battle over Amber Heard allegations
Johnny Depp has lost his legal battle against The Sun.
The newspaper had previously published an article referring to Depp as a "wife beater" and claimed he had assaulted his ex-wife Amber Heard. He vehemently denies the allegations and had been attempting to sue for libel.
However, the High Court dismissed the claim today (November 2), as Justice Nicol ruled that 12 of the 14 alleged incidents of domestic violence "have been proved to the civil standard".
Depp's lawyer called the verdict "perverse and bewildering", and indicated that they will appeal the decision.
Related: Johnny Depp sent disturbing Amber Heard threats, court hears
Following the outcome, a spokesperson for The Sun declared: "The Sun has stood up and campaigned for the victims of domestic abuse for over 20 years.
"Domestic abuse victims must never be silenced and we thank the judge for his careful consideration and thank Amber Heard for her courage in giving evidence to the court."
Heard's US lawyer said after the verdict: "For those of us present for the London High Court trial, this decision and judgement are not a surprise. Very soon, we will be presenting even more voluminous evidence in the US."
Related: Johnny Depp opens up about depression during Amber Heard split and financial struggles
Depp's legal representative Jenny Afia criticised the outcome, commenting: "This decision is as perverse as it is bewildering.
"Most troubling is the judge's reliance on the testimony of Amber Heard, and corresponding disregard of the mountain of counter-evidence from police officers, medical practitioners, her own former assistant, other unchallenged witnesses and an array of documentary evidence which completely undermined the allegations, point by point.
"The judgement is so flawed that it would be ridiculous for Mr Depp not to appeal this decision."
Digital Spy has launched its first-ever digital magazine with exclusive features, interviews, and videos. Access the latest edition with a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+.
Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter? Sign up to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our Watch This Facebook Group for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.
You Might Also Like
