The opinion
No, 01-14- 00880- CV
3fn tfje Court of appeal for tfje
Jftrsft Mi&tvitt of Cexa* FILED IN
1ST COURT OF APPEALS
HOUSTON. TEXAS
AUG 0 5 2015
THEAOLA ROBINSON,
CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE
Appellant clerk,
vs.
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY, ABC TELEVISION NETWORK, INC.,
CC TEXAS HOLDING COMPANY, INC., AND KTRK TELEVISION, INC.
Appellees
On appeal from the 234th Judicial District Court for Harris County,
Cause No. 1154895, Honorable Mauricio Reece Rondon and Wesley Ward
APPELLANT'S OBJECTION AND RESPONSE TO APPELLEES'
MOTION TO DISMISS FOR LACK OF JURISDICTION AND
VEXATIQlJvS LITIGANT
Respectf»%~submittecl,
HE AOLA ROBINSQI
<SQN
5505 JENSEN DRIVE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77028
PHONE: 832-250-4444
PROSE
APPELLANT'S OBJECTION AND RESPONSE TO APPELLEES'
MOTION TO DISMISS FOR LACK OF JURISDICTION AND
VEXATIOUS LITIGANT
Respectfully submitted, Theaola Robinson, 5505 Jensen Drive, Houston,
Texas 77028, Telephone: (832) 250-4444, email: benji's@wt.net, Pro Se.
TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT:
Appellant Robinson asks the Court to deny Appellees' motion to dismiss the
appeal and reverse and remand the trial court decision for attorney fees and the
decision of this Court pursuant to Wall v. Wall, 143 Tex. 418, 186 S.W.2d 57
(1945). This Court should hear this case because, as everyone acknowledges, there
are First Amendment and statutory construction issues before the Court. Appellees
have led the court of appeals into error during the first appeal. It is a holding
unsound in Constitutional law. The first appeal was an untimely appeal filed by
Appellees and the issues were appellate jurisdiction and evidence. Based on the
incomplete record before it at the time of the first appeal, and because of the newly
enacted TCPA statute the court of appeals rendered an opinion that is void by
operation of law. The second appeal was filed by Appellant on October 28, 2014.
The issues in the second appeal are unconstitutional attorney's fees awarded
pursuant to the newly enacted Texas Anti-Slapp law and the applicability of the
TCPA to Appellant Robinson's First Amendment cause of action which is a
question of fact.
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Appellant is Theaola Robinson; Appellees are The Walt Disney
Company; ABC Television Network, Inc.; CC Texas Holding Co., Inc.; and KTRK
Television, Inc.
B. ARGUMENT & AUTHORITIES
2. Although the Court has the authority under Texas Rule of Appellate
Procedure 42.3(a) to dismiss an appeal for lack ofjurisdiction, this is not a case in
which the Court should do so because of statutory construction of the Texas
Citizens Participation Act, Chapter 27 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies
Code (TCPA) which conflicts with Texas appellate and constitutional law. It is a
fact at the time of Appellees' Motion to Dismiss under the act Appellant
Robinson's "legal proceeding" was filed prior to the enactment of the TCPA. See
Appellees' Motion to Dismissfor Lack ofJurisdiction. Statutory construction is a
question of law. State v. Shumake, 199 S.W.3d 279, 284 (Tex. 2006). The TCPA
defines a "legal action" as a "lawsuit, cause of action, petition, complaint, cross-
claim or counterclaim or any other judicial pleading or filing that requests legal or
equitable relief." See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code Ann. § 27.001(6). "The plain
meaning of the text is the best expression of legislative intent unless a different
meaning is apparent from the context or the plain meaning leads to absurd or
nonsensical results." Molinet v. Kimbrell, 356 S.W.3d 407, 411 (Tex. 2011).
Appellant Robinson's argue that this expansive definition refers to "more than just
[a] lawsuit," so that the TCPA applies whenever a pleading in any case (state or
federal) makes a claim that could be construed as a SLAPP claim, even if the
plaintiff commenced the lawsuit before the effective date of the TCPA. The
legislature dictated that the TCPA "be construed liberally to effectuate its purpose
and intent fully" which it stated was "to encourage and safeguard the constitutional
rights of persons to petition, speak freely, associate freely, and otherwise
participate in government to the maximum extent permitted by law and, at the
same time, protect the rights of aperson to file meritorious lawsuits for
demonstrable injury." See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem.Code Ann. §§ 27.002, 27.011(b).
Therefore, Appellant Robinson asks this Court to deay Appellees motion to
dismiss for lack ofjurisdiction and apply the statutory language of the TCPA
defining a legal proceeding. See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code Ann. § 27.00let seq.
3. The Court should deny Appellee's motion to dismiss this appeal reverse
and remand the trial court decision for attorney fees and the decision of this Court
because the judgment is final and appealable. See Park Place Hosp. v. Estate of
Milo, 909 S.W.2d 508, 510 (Tex. 1995). Because Texas adheres to the final
judgment rule, appellate courts often address the finality of a judgment sua sponte.
See Dallas County Appraisal Dist. v. Funds Recovery, Inc., 887 S.W.2d 465, 468
(Tex. App.-Dallas, 1994, writ denied) (explaining that the appellate court must
inquire into its own jurisdiction, even if it is necessary to address it sua sponte).
Here, although finality of the trial court's judgment was never seriously in
question, Robinson's motion for new trial and briefs asserted that "the Court's
'Final Judgment' is not final because it does not dispose of all claims and all
parties and the TCPA does not apply to legal proceeding. There is no question that
Judge Wesley Ward, the trial court judge in second appeal for attorney's fees,
signed a final judgment on October 8, 2014 under the TCPA and there is no
question that Judge Rondon Reece, the trial court judge in first appeal signed on
February 12, 2012 a nonappealable interlocutory order. See Appellant'sBrief.
4. The Court should deny Appellee's motion to dismiss this appeal or
reverse and remand the trial court decision for attorney fees and the decision of this
Court because appellant timely perfected an appeal. See Quanaim v. Frasco Rest.
& Catering, 17 S.W.3d 30, 40 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist] 2000,pet.
denied).
5. The Court should deny Appellees' motion to dismiss this appeal or
reverse and remand the trial court decision for attorney fees and the decision of this
Court because Appellant Robinson due process is/was hindered do to Appellees
describing Appellant Robinson as a vexation litigant. The vexatious litigation
statute by its terms does not apply to post-judgment proceedings; rather, to declare
a litigant as vexatious, a motion must be filed in a pending case. In re Florance,
377 S.W.3d 837 (Tex. App. Dallas 2012). Appellees' vexatious litigant motion is
an enforcement judgment in disguise. Appellant Robinson has/is exercise her
constitutional right to petition the court for redress. Appellant Robinson is/was the
prevailing party in the original legal proceeding. Robinson should not now have to
lose her appellate rights because the court of appeals and Appellees later found that
its original decision was erroneous. See Briscoe v. Goodmark Corp., 102 S.W.3d
714, 717 (Tex. 2003). Therefore, just like Briscoe, Appellant Robinson is/was
doing everything to preserve her right to petition for redress and is not a vexatious
litigant. Id.
6. Appellant Robinson attaches an affidavit to this response to establish
facts that are not included in the appellate record, are not known to the Court in its
official capacity herein incorporated as Exhibit A. As the Court is aware, the TCPA
is designed to protect individuals whom are exercising their First Amendment
Rights to right to petition the Court and seek redress and other constitutional issues
such as a right to jury trial in both cases.
7. Appellant Robinson's legal proceeding was filed prior to the enactment
of TCPA. The only relevant pleadings included in the appellate record are the
original trial court Facts and Conclusion of Law by Judge Rondon, Walt
Disney's/KTRK Channel 13 Motion to Dismiss under the TCPA, and this Court
opinion. There is no reporter record or court reporter record on Appellees'Motion
6
for Summary Judgment for attorney's fees. See Exhibit A. For the first time on
appeal, Appellant Robinson has asserted that the attorney's fees awarded under the
Texas Anti-Slapp statute are unconstitutional and her defamation cause of action
was filed on September 2010 in federal court. A decision rendered on an issue
before the appellate court does not absolutely bar re-consideration of the same
issue on a second appeal. The court of appeals had the authority to re-visit its
jurisdictional decision. See Briscoe v. Goodmark Corp., 102 S.W.3d 714, 717
(Tex. 2003). Therefore, the Court should hear Appellant Robinson's appeal and not
be bound by the "law of case doctrine." See Trevino v. Turcotte, 564 S.W.2d 682,
685 (Tex. 1998).
8. Although the Court has the authority under Texas Rule of Appellate
Procedure 42.3(e) to dismiss an appeal if the appellant does not comply with a
requirement of the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure, this is not a case in which
the Court should do so because of the constitutional issues that are at stake and it
will go against this Court duty to preserve the citizens of Texas inalienable rights
granted by the United States and Texas Constitution. See Conn. Gen. Life Ins. Co.,
219 S.W.2d at 800. The purpose of the TCPA is "to encourage and safeguard the
constitutional rights of persons to petition, speak freely, associate freely, and
otherwiseparticipate in government to the maximum extentpermitted by law and,
at the same time, protect the rights of a person to file meritorious lawsuits for
demonstrable injury." See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code Ann. § 27.002. All
governmental powers are to protect those rights including the First Court of
Appeals. "The most sacred duty of government is to do equal and impartial justice
to all its citizens, said Thomas Jefferson."
9. The Court should deny Appellees' motion to dismiss because Appellant
Robinson is attempting to comply with the rules and clerk's instruction. Tex. R.
App. P. 42.3(c). Appellant Robinson has diligently attempted to comply with the
rules of court by sending any documents filed with the Court via email to
Appellees' attorney. See Exhibit A. Appellees base their Motion to Dismiss solely
on claims that this court lacks jurisdiction and plenary power to hear Robinson's
appeal. In the first appeal, Appellees issue was this Court jurisdiction to hear
Appellees' appeal under the TCPA prior to 2013 amendment. See Scherr v.
Oyedokum, 889 S.W.2d 546, 549 (Tex. App.-Houston [14th Dist] 1999, no writ)
(noting that "[i]t is fundamental error for this Court to assume jurisdiction over an
interlocutory order when not expressly authorized by statute to do so"). Now,
Appellees would like the court to dismiss Appellant Robinson's appeal for lack of
jurisdiction under the same statute awarding attorney's fees. Furthermore, a court
of appeals must not affirm or reverse a judgment or dismiss an appeal for formal
defects or irregularities in appellate procedure without allowing a reasonable time
to correct or amend the defects or irregularities. Tex. R. App. P. 44.3(c). Therefore,
Appellant Robinson asserts that she be allowed to amend notice of appeal in the
interest ofjustice and deny Appellees' motion to dismiss for lack ofjurisdiction.
C. CONCLUSION
The TPCA is not designed or intended to be used to hinder the right to
petition the court for redress. Appellees attempt to escape liability from Appellant's
First Amendment claim is disingenuous and should be met with sanctions from this
Court. Under the TCPA pursuant to § 27.009(b), if the Court finds that a motion to
dismiss filed under this chapter is frivolous or solely intended to delay, the Court
may award court costs and reasonable attorney's fees to the responding party.
Where the previous opinion addressed issues in the summary judgment context,
concluded that genuine issues of material fact precluded summary judgment and
did not make a legal holding regarding the sufficiency of the applicability of
TCPA. See Hahn v. Love, 394 S.W.3d 14 (Tex. App. Houston 1st Dist. 2012),
review denied, (Feb. 1, 2013). Therefore, Appellees should be sanctioned for their
attempted abuse of the TCPA and for blatantly stalling this litigation and their
motion to dismiss should be denied.
D. PRAYER
For these reasons, Appellant asks the Court to deny Appellees' motion and
continue with this appeal and the applicability of TCPA and the law of case
doctrine does not apply.
Respectfully submitted,
THEAOLA ROBINSON
5505 JENSEN DRIVE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77028
PHONE: 832-250-4444
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
In accordance with the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure I certify that a
copy of this Appellant's Brief was served on Appellees The Walt Disney
Company, ABC Television Network, Inc., CC Texas Holding Company, Inc., and
KTRK Television, Inc. through counsel of record, Laura Lee Prather of Haynes &
Boone by U.S. Mail certified mail, via email, and facsimile on August 3, 2015.
Respectfully submitted,
THEAOLA ROBINSON
5505 JENSEN DRIVE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77028
PHONE: 832-250-4444
10
EXHIBIT A THEAOLA ROBINSON ADFFIDAVIT
No. 01-14- 00880- CV
In the Court of Appeal for the
First District of Texas
THEAOLA ROBINSON,
Appellant
-vs~
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY, ABC TELEVISION NETWORK, INC., CC TEXAS
HOLDING COMPANY, INC., AND KTRK TELEVISION, INC.
Appellees
On appeal from the 234th Judicial District Court for Harris County,
Cause No.l 154895, Honorable Mauricio Reece Rondon and Wesley Ward
APPELLANT'S AMENDED NOTICE OF APPEAL
A
THE AOLA ROBINSOP
5505 JENSEN DRIVE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77028
PHONE: 832-250-4444
PROSE
Amended NOTICE OF APPEAL
Pursuant.to Texas Rule,of Appellate Procedure 25.1, and 44.3 Theaola Robinson,
Plaintiff in the above-styled and numbered action, files this notice of appeal to First Court of
Appeals. Plaintiffdesireto appeal from the judgment rendered against Plaintiffby the 234th
Judicial District Court of Harris County, Texas on October 8,2014.
Dated: August 3,2015
Respectfully submitted,
Theaola Robins
5505 Jensen Drive
Houston, Texas 77028
832-250-4444
benji's@wt.net
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
In accordance with the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure I certify that a copy of this Notice of
Appeal was served on Respondent KTRK Channel 13 through counsel of record, Laura Lee
Prather of Haynes & Boone by US. Mail certified mail, via email, and facsimile on August 3,
2015,
Laura Lee Prather
State Bar No. 16234200
Catherine Lewis Robb
State Bar No. 24007924
Haynes and Boone LLP
600 Congress Avenue, Suite 1300
Austin* Texas 78701
Telephone: (512) 867-8400
Facsimile: (512) 867-8470
Email: lauraprather@havnesboone.com
Respectfully spbmitted,
Theaola Robinson
5505 Jensen Drive
Houston, Texas.77028
832-250-4444
benjPs@wt.net
EXHIBIT A
BENJI'S SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL ACADEMY
AFFIDAVIT STATEMENT OF FACT
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, on this day personally appeared Theaola
Robinson known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed below and after
having been duly sworn, on her oath stated as follows:
My name is Theaola Grimble Robinson. I am over the age eighteen a (18) years. I have
never been convicted of a felony, or a crime involving moral turpitude, and under no
disabilities., I am fully competent and qualified to make this affidavit. Each of the
statements in this affidavit is within my personal knowledge and is true and correct.
Theaola Rofcgfe^^ ^ Date fit?/® 3/f£0/K
Benji's Special Educational Academy History
Benji's Special Educational Academy (BSEA) Inc. was founded in 1980, by Mrs.
Theaola Robinson. The school was organized as a non-profit facility to provide care and
education for Special Needs children. The school was named after my youngest son
Benjajuain Chandler affectionally called "Benjie". At the age of three (3) Benjie, fell
and ruptured a vessel in his head that bled on his brain which caused moderate brain
damages. After the accident, Benjie was diagnosed as being "mental Retarded." I was
unable to locate a day care for him because of his seizures. During the early 80s
programs were not readily available for special need children. I struggled and cried many
tears trying to find someone to keep my son while I went to work. Being a single mother
with two other children was difficult. I purposed in my heart to ensure that my son would
become successful. I developed a special individualized educational learning plan and
began to teach him at home. I noticed his progress socially, physically, mentally and
emotionally, developing to a great magnitude. I believed and say so very often, "If
Benjie can be successful, and other children can be successful as well". It is my
philosophies that "if one must judge; judge by their abilities not their disabilities".
The focus of the school was to provide care and education for other children like Benjie,
who needed help and support to become productive citizens in our society. Benji's
Special Educational Academy was also organized to aid in the development of fragile
children who required special attention in the areas of emotional, physical, mental,
academics support and for those children who are economically at-risk of not getting a
proper education to succeed.
It is my goal to allow special need children the opportunity to become productive citizens
during and after high school and not wards of the state or to be dismissed from society.
It is a rewarding experience to have the privilege of aiding in the success of the special
needs individuals for thirty years without any complaints. Special needs children have
no mentors but it's even more rewarding to be a mentor. Arose from humble
circumstances but remained philosophical about the success ofthe school "I felt that this
was what I was assigned by God to do "Help heal the hurt of humanity".
Unlike Mrs. Prather I don't have a long vitae, I am not a lawyer nor did I write the anti
Slapp law that was designed to allow the media to defame citizen's character, reputation,
trust and participation in their communities, their families and church and call it
"frivolous". This is not a fight for materialistic values, but survival of life, liberty and
"Justice for all".
"Vexatious litigant"
In reading Mrs. Prather motion to declare Mrs. Robinson "Vexatious litigant" she stated
"Mrs. Robinson filed for an extension because of a family illness made her unable to
timely file her brief but she filed a lawsuit aganist Texas Education Agency and the City
ofHouston clearly indicating that she had time to spend on her legal matters" This is out
of order, Mrs. Prather cannot control my time nor how it is spent.
Mrs. Prather "vexatious litigant motion" and reading TEA emails, it proves and
established actual malice. Mrs. Prather also stated "Mrs. Robinson complaint was they
closed down her school" Of course it was not TEA school to close, Benji's was thirty
years old and we only communicated with TEA for ten years. So yes it was and is my
school. TEA actions were of malice and as Dr. Hooper at TEA stated in his email to
Ronald Rowell at TEA "she thinks she started this school but we need to show her (Mrs.
Robinson) who runs things".
Now to add insult to the injuries on July 26, 2015 I received a motion that stated
"Appellee KTRK Television, INC's motion to dismiss Appellant's Appeal and request
to declare Appellant Robinson's a Vexatious Litigant". In Reading the definition of
Vexatious litigant it is a legal action which is brought, regardless of its merits, solely to
harass or subdue an adversary. . This is neither a frivolous, vexatious nor a meaningless
case. Evidence (emails exhibit D) has been admitted to prove an abusive plot of
destruction. There is proof that there was no question from TEA "where the money
went". This was the story Channel 13 created for news story. This case has never been
frivolous and now she want to declare me a vexatious litigant. I am only defending my
rights. This actual applies to Mrs. Prather and KTRK.
I recall as a child reading from torn and/or missing pages of our History books given to
our school after being used by the Caucasian school. I read "We hold these truths to be
self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with
certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of
Happiness and an individual is innocence until proven guilty".
That statement is one of the best-known sentences in the English language and contains
the most potent and consequential words in American history on human rights. Abraham
Lincoln made it the centerpiece of his rhetoric in the Gettysburg Address of 1863, and
his policies.
Extensions
During the onset of this case Mrs. Prather seeked an extension to care for her twins, I
had no objection because I am a mother as well who has struggled thirty years to provide
the best care and education for my special need child and many other children with the
same disadvantaged as my son. .
Mrs. Prather is well aware that her pursuit in this case is wrong. Again on July 27,2015
Mrs. Prather file for an extension and was granted but I made no speculation on what or
why she needed an extension. Does the statement "all men are created equal" apply to
Mrs. Prather or not? But I am being personally attacked by Mrs. Prather on every side.
Mrs. Prather not only is the counselor defending the media that intentional created false
allegation to air a story that destroyed the reputation of the special need school and its
founder Mrs. Robinson with no remorse, but believe it's a victory. Again I am within
my Constitutional Rights in the pursuit ofhappiness, my innocence, to be respected as a
citizen and not be abused by the media and Governmental authorities. Mrs. Prather has
taken this lawsuit personally, by writing her personal opinions. Mrs. Prather is not
seeking the truth but continue to cover up the truth and the opportunity for me to prove
this is a defamation lawsuit that does not qualify for the Anti-Slapp Act. To what extent
will Mrs. Prather go, to win her case even though it's based on created false allegations
by TEA and Channel 13?
The Tragedy
The tragedyofthese false allegations and intentional plot ofdestruction by governmental
agencies arid media abuse affected and destroyed many lives. Because of the
intentional, immediate, takeover ofthe school without warning, my second son who was
employed since 1985, was unable to find employment which resulted in the loss of his
home, automobile, wife and children. Afterward, for three years he suffered and
struggled with major depression. Finally he suffered a major stroke and today he is
paralyzed and unable to function. The stress from TEA abuse of their authority and
channel 13 false allegations that destroyed our only source of income and respect in our
community we are characterized as "thieves". Please see the court report Exhibit B.
Ms. Prather stated "we aren't responsible for what the viewers said. They're upset about
that". Yes I am upset, I've lost thirty years of hard work, my son's life is destroyed, my
children at Benji's was scattered and has been give the wrong impression oftheir mentor
Mrs. Robinson. The viewers would appreciate the truth, an apology to Mrs. Robinson,
the students and the parents. But Channel 13 reported untrue information. For example,
if the media story caused the viewer to make negative statement about Mrs. Prather,
wouldn't she be upset knowing the information was false? "Just stand in my shoes"
Mrs. Prather manipulation ofthe truth, the court and TEA cruelty and abuse has induced
so much pain and distress until I feel empty, like someone reached in and pulled out my
guts. I feel hurt, walked on, and lied on. I've been defamed, abused and feel less than a
person for trying to help heal the hurt of humanity." This is what Mrs. Prather, Channel
13 TEA and others political individuals has done. Day by day I watch my son deteriorate
because of the cruel and deceptiveness that has been done to my family, to simple win a
case and takeover our school based of false allegations is malice.
Court Report
Mrs. Prather quoted "Practice and Remedies Code that talk about fair report and fair
comment. And we have established that this was a fair comment on a matter of public
concern, and that there were reports on governmental proceedings. Both of those are
protected under Chapter 73." How can falsifying information and omission of the truth
be consider "fair"? There is nothing fair about this case and it certainly does not apply
nor qualify as an anti-Slapp Act. It is considered an unfair, unethical and disadvantage
to Mrs. Robinson and business disparagement. I agree that the public should know how
tax payers' funds are being spent but when the media make up their own false
information just to have a story and destroy a citizen's reputation and character "that is
defamation". Mrs. Prather is well aware of the truth but she trying to make the court
believe the story that was told to the citizens in Texas by Channel 13 which has portrayed
me as a thief, a monster and the administrators ofBenji's as poor manager. Mrs. Prather
also stated "that there was repeated financial mismanagement. Not true please see audit
report in see audit Exhibit C.
"Throw her in jail she is a thief. This statement is actual one ofthe 63 negative statement
perceived of me by the viewers. If this is not destroying my reputation please tell me
what is? This is the burden of bringing a prima facie case that she speaks about in the
court report.
In the Court Report, Mrs. Prather alluded that "Benji's was being investigated by the
Texas education agency for a number of things, including mismanagement in poor
financial practices regarding state taxpayer funds". There was not an ongoing financial
investigation it was an intentional abusive of authority to take over the school by TEA.
Please see emails in exhibit D. In the court report Mrs. Prather and Ms. Robb made
several defamed untrue and uninvestigated rumors about the school and Mrs. Robinson.
Mrs. Prather facts were speculative because Channel 13 did not investigate the facts but
created their own malicious story to tickle the viewer's ears.
Trumped up defamed statements was created and implemented by TEA (see Exhibit D).
Channel 13 wanted a story about "a black charter school and money missing". Mrs.
Prather also stated that "Theaola Robinson and Benji's staffwere poor managers. Again
this was never stated by TEA only by Channel 13 and Attorney Prather's. A certified
staffof 100 for 629 children, staff, all bills paid timely, three meals daily for the children,
security system insurance 6 busses, upkeep of the school, educational materials and
supplies would cost more than 3. Million but the management at Benji's provided a top
of the line modern technology programs for all age (prek-^* grades) and a well-
designed and decorative school because of Theaola Robinson and the management staff
at Benji's Academy. So please, how is it possible that the same amount is supposedly
missing? That was our annual budget as stated in the court records. Apparently Channel
13 alluded and believe that an African American company cannot manage 3.million.
Yes! Benji's Special Educational Academy was responsible for educating hundreds of
students with taxpayer funds (ten years of state funds) to operate the wonderful school
for special need children. It's a fact that TEA never stated that 3. Million were missing
because it would certainly be false, the proof and truth is reflected in the audits. Even
the courts gave an illustration when Mrs. Prather tried to convince the courts that Theaola
Robinson was not named in her poor management statement. Benji's Academy was "my
baby" defamed and destroyed. See page 12 through 23 which give a real descriptive
assumption of defamation.
Mrs. Prather stated "After years of looking into the school, and we have evidence
attached to our motion going through all of this, and this will get to the question of
substantial truth". Mrs. Prather stated "investigating the school for a number of years,
receiving inadequate responses or no response, and after being I think documented in
some instances-prevented from properly investigatingthe school, they finally appointed
a new board of managers and superintendent to assist Benji's s with its financial woes."
These are just words and Mrs. Prather's personal thinking but she said "I think".
A so called board was appointed for one meeting. My question is what can be
detenmned in one meeting especially when it come to the life of individuals and the
educational process of special children or for children for that matter?
Mrs. Prather participation in this case is considered an unfair advantage which means
unjust, and involves acts deemed unethical. Any attempt to acquire an advantage or to
impose a disadvantage in a manner which violates such a standard of conduct is unfair.
Exploiting my business, causing business disparagement my profession, and my
character, my good name, using my vulnerability for her personal, social objectives and
using unethical methods to achieve and win her anti Slapp case. Mrs. Prather was a
party in writing the Anti-Slapp law therefore, she can afford to play "tripping over and
controlling the player" which deemed an unfair and unethical advantage.
The original case was filed 09/27/2010 in the federal courts with KTRK Television, Inc
was an interested Party. Jury Demand: Plaintiff Nature of Suit: 446 Civil Rights:
Americans with Disabilities Other Jurisdiction: Federal Question
A Government official or officer ofthe law violates the color oflaw statute by fabricating
evidence against and destroying of an individual especially when that person's rights of
due process and unreasonable seizure (mentally held captive) have been violated. In the
case of deprivation of property, the official would violate the color of law statute by
unlawfully obtaining or maintaining the property of another. In that case, the official
has overstepped or misapplied his authority. All the above is true. The Fourteenth
Amendment secures the right to due process and the Eighth Amendment also prohibits
the use of cruel and unusual punishment.
The fourteenth amendment also provides: No state shall make or enforce any law which
shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any
state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny
to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection ofthe laws.
A person accused of a crime is to be allowed the opportunity to have a trial and not
be subjected to punishment without having been afforded the opportunity of the
legal process. I have not been given this opportunity.
The public entrusts its law enforcement officials with protecting the community,
respecting citizens and upholding the law not abuse of their power.
(a) A public servant acting under color of his office or employment commits an offense
if:
• Intentionally subjects another to mistreatment,
« Falsification of information and misrepresentation
• Violation of Civil Rights
» Collusion
• Seizure and confiscation of personal properties
• Tortuous interference
• Business disparagement
• Dispossession of assessment,
All the above has been violated. Texas Education Agency agents knew their actions were
unlawful; and intentionally by denying and impeding Benji's Academy and Theaola
Robinson from exercising or enjoyment of their right, privilege, power, or immunity,
knowing their conduct was unlawful; and deprivation ofrights under color of law which
include: 18 U.S. Code § 242. TEA intentionally premeditatedly plotted to shut down the
great school, confiscate its properties and destroy the founder's name. Channel 13 seized
the opportunity to make Theaola Robinson a target and example for the newly
implemented Anti-Slapp Act.
In 2009 this was the progress of the school. GREAT SCHOOL
Y"' scnoosi
In 2009 Benji's Special Educational Academy along with other tops
school was named as Top high schools in Texas: High schools in each state that
represent the qualities of a great school.
• Debakey High School for Health Prof Houston, TX. Top Performing high school
in
Texas
• KIPP Academy Middle Houston, TX. Top Performing high school in Texas
• Benji's Special Educational Academy Charter School Houston, TX A Most
Improved High school in Texas. Benji's Special Educational Academy shows the
greatest improvement in test scores when comparing scores from the most recent year
available to the year before.
TEA purposely placed $ 411,000 on warrant hold for the August 2010 reimbursements
which was due on September 27, 2010 prohibiting the school from meeting its
obligation. TEA used those obligations to create a financial upheaval in the school. If
the reimbursements had not been withheld all the below obligations would have been
met. Channel 13 again used third party hearsay to destroy us. Retirement contributions,
$13,000 in health coverage, $43,000. IRS debt was a monthlydraft through Wells Fargo
Bank $87,000. Mrs. Prather made another false statement "The board of directors failed
to oversee or adequately supervise the financial resources. And the charter holder failed
to properly account for accrued unreimbursed leave as to liability. This is just a few of
the problems that they encountered". None which is true and can be proven false
allegations. No one from Channel 13 investigated, interviewed nor spoke to any one
from Benji's Academy. But deliberately pieced false information that defamed the
school and Mrs. Robinson. "Even the court understand and see there could not have
been $3 million missing in funds, as stated "this was just their basically operating
budget".
As stated in the court report "There are no allegation made by any ofthe state authorities,
federal authorities, and the pension plan, anything like that says that the $3 million was
missing" But Mrs. Prather refuse to accept the truth.
I pray that Mrs. Prather will deal with facts and truth, not just to win an "Anti Slapp law
whether it defamation or bring disgrace and injustice to someone's life. „
NOTARY
STATE OF: TEXAS COUNTY OF: HARRIS
On I / sj 1/ I5 •before me, Theaola Robinson
Personally appeared, before me and known asTheanla ruAvir\sor>
Proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person
whose Name is subscribed to the within instrument and has hereby
acknowledged to me that she have executed the same in her authorized
capacity, and that by her signature on the instrument the person or the
entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the instrument.
Signature of:
Date,..-/l-Sl- \ S
Witness my hand and official seal
Personalized Seal) Notary Public's Signature
4^M\ ROSA SMITH •
•" a -f% NotaryPublic, State of Texas
Tlr&a Sm\ArV\ 'i^r^.-fi MY Commission Expires
Print Name ""f„±W April 16,2017
No. 01-14- 00880- CV
3n tlje Court of Appeal for tlje
Jftrsft ©tetrtct of tCexa*
THEAOLA ROBINSON,
Appellant
vs
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY, ABC TELEVISION NETWORK, INC.,
CC TEXAS HOLDING COMPANY, INC., AND KTRK TELEVISION, INC.
Appellees
On appeal from the 234th Judicial District Court for Harris County,
Cause No.l 154895, Honorable Mauricio Reece Rondon and Wesley Ward
ORDER ON APPELLANT'S OBJECTION AND RESPONSE TO
APPELLEES'JVIOTIQN TO DISMISS FOR LACK OF JURISDICTION
AND VEXATIOUS LITIGANT
IN
5505 JENSEN DRIVE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77028
PHONE: 832-250-4444
PROSE
11
ORDER ON APPELLANT'S OBJECTION AND RESPONSE TO
APPELLEES'MOTION TO DISMISS FOR LACK OF JIJRISDICTION
AND VEXATIOUS LITIGANT
On , the court considered Appellant's Robinson response to
Appellees Motion to Dismiss this appeal. After considering the motion, the court decided that the
request should be DENIED.
It is ORDERED that this case is retained on the appeal docket and is not to be dismissed.
Sign Date: .
[Name of judge]
[Title of judge]
12
EXHIBIT B COURT REPORT
EXHD3IT B
Court Report Motion to Dismiss
February 13, 2012
REPORTER'S RECORD
VOLUME 1 OF 1 VOLUME
TRIAL COURT CAUSE NO. 2011-54895
THEOLA ROBINSON, [N THE DISTRICT COURT
Plaintiff
vs.
HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
CC TEXAS HOLDING CO.
INC., and, KTRK
TELEVISION, INC.,
Defendants
234TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MOTION TO DISMISS
On the 13th day of February, 2012, the following proceedings came on to be held in the
above-titled and numbered cause before the Honorable REECE RONDON, Judge
Presiding, held in Houston, Harris County, Texas. Proceedings reported by computerized
stenotype machine.
APPEARANCES
Berry Dunbar Bowen
SBOT NO. 02721050
Amy Brenda Archambault
SBOT NO. 24055110
BERRY DUNBAR BOWEN
3014 Brazos Street
Houston, Texas 77006-3418
Telephone: (713) 521-3525
Attorneys for Plaintiff
Laura Lee Prather
SBOT NO. 16234200
Catherine Lewis Robb
SBOT NO. 24007924
SEDGWICK, LLP
919 Congress Avenue, Suite 1250
Austin, Texas 78701
Telephone: (512) 481-8400
Attorneys for Defendant KTRK
VOLUME 1
MOTION TO DISMISS
February 13, 2012
PAGE VOL.
Motion to Dismiss 4 1
Adjournment 52 1
Reporter's Certificate 53 1
(Motion to dismiss at 2:27p.m.)
THE COURT: All right. We are here on
Cause No. 2011-54895 Robinson and Others versus the
Walt Disney Company and Others. Let me have counsel state their appearances for the
record.
MR. BOWEN: Berry Bowen for the plaintiff. With me is Amy Archambault, also for the
plaintiff Mrs. Robinson.
MS. ROBB: Katherine Robb for defendant KTRK Television and Ms. Laura Prather.
THE COURT: Okay. We have the defendant KTRK's motion to dismiss. I did some reading
for this. We originally had this hearing set some time ago, but then weather got the best of
all of us, and we ended up moving the hearing to until today.
The case is styled, Mr. Bowen, as Mrs. Robinson and this Charter School versus the Walt
Disney Company, ABC Television Network, Inc., CC Texas Holding Company, Inc., and
KTR —KTRK Television, Inc. Is the case being indeed prosecuted on behalf of Mrs.
Robinson and the charter school?
MR. BOWEN: No longer, Your Honor. We filed an amended petition about conformance
with the Court's order. We could not ~ apparently one of our defendants had no legal
existence. We couldn't get him served. And we were —
THE COURT: You mean one of your plaintiffs or defendants?
MR. BOWEN: One of the defendants was —was not a legal entity. And at the same time
when we filed the amended complaint, we did ~ discontinued the suit in the name of the
Benji's Special Education Academy. So, Mrs. Robinson individually is the sole plaintiff.
THE COURT: And then which are the defendants, then?
MR. BOWEN: The Walt Disney Company, I guess CC Texas Holding Company and KTRK
Television, Inc. The other named defendant ABC Television Network, Inc., it was
confirmed to us, was not a legal entity, and that's why we couldn't get service on them, and
we're on the DWOP docket.
THE COURT: Okay. The ~ the lawsuit essentially is not exclusively a defamation lawsuit.
MR. BOWEN: It's exclusively.
2
THE COURT: Okay.
MR. BOWEN: It's a pure defamation
lawsuit.
THE COURT: I understand that KTRK was the entity that put forward the various. I think
it was like two or three news stories around the similar events or the same events. It made
a couple of reports, as did other media entities in and around the area, so I understand their
liability.
Is there an alter ego theory or respondeat superior? I don't understand why Walt
Disney Company ~ and I don't know anything about CC Texas Holding Company, but I
know a little bit about Walt Disney Company, so let me ask about Walt Disney first. How
is Walt Disney liable in this case?
MR. BOWEN: They're liable under the express wording of Chapter 73 of the Texas
Business and Commerce code. I had ~ obviously, we're not here to argue that point today
THE COURT: Right.
MR. BOWEN: ~ since they're not the movant. But I have, and I can get it to the Court as
quickly as necessary, communicated in the past with Ms. Prather and given her my detailed
analysis of the historical analysis of the Statute, Chapter 73 of the Texas of Business of
Commerce Code. Which is very interesting, because it was a model act promulgated by the
broad industry and passed by a vast majority of the states in a very brief window of time
from, I believe, 1947 to 1953 at the dawn ofthe television era, and has never been amended.
And We believe that that analysis shows fairly clearly that there was some tradeoffs made
by the broadcast industry, and that the owners subjected themselves to liability with certain
defenses under the wording and intent of the model act.
THE COURT: So, there ~ we're not going to ~ we're not going to debate the liability.
MR. BOWEN: Right.
THE COURT: It's based on the statute ~
MR. BOWEN: Yes, Your Honor.
THE COURT: —in your opinion. Okay.
Is that the same thing for CC Texas Holding Company?
MR. BOWEN: Yes, Your Honor. I believe that they both qualify as owners under the law.
THE COURT: Okay. Whether they do or don't, we'll have that conversation some other
day, perhaps. But at this point, I just wanted to understand that basis for it.
Okay. So, Texas civil of practice -let's try that again. Texas Civil and Practice
Remedy Code Chapter 27 or known as the Anti-SLAPP, guess, provisions or Anti-SLAPP
Statute, KTRK believes provides the defendant with certain remedies or certain defenses
or a get-out-of-jail free card, if you will, or as Mr. Bowen probably would characterize it
for certain types of reports, or certain types of litigation based on certain types of reports.
So, Ms. Robb, are you going to argue the motion?
MS. ROBB: Yes,
THE COURT: Okay. Go ahead.
MS. ROBB: First is a preliminary matter, one, we did have some discussions with Mr.
Bowen about that previously. We're not debating that today. But in fact we read the statute
very differently, in fact I thinkjust the opposite was the intent. The intent was to prevent
exactly what's happening here, which is a indirect parent company being charged with and
being held responsible for something that ~ that an indirect subsidiary did.
And the idea was that you didn't want to have the say, in this instance, a television station
being able to assert certain defenses and privileges and have the indirect parent company
not avail - not able to avail themselves of the same defenses.
And, so, we essentially sort of turned on its head his argument. We've had that discussion.
We can have that another day. But the other issue relating to that is that we had filed special
appearances, as I'm sure the Court is aware, for Walt Disney Company and for CC Texas
Holding, because we don't believe the Court has jurisdiction over them.
THE COURT: Okay.
MS. ROBB: They're not a party to this
motion. But to the extent the Court would believe that it has jurisdiction, they would have
the same argument. And if in fact the Court at some later date, you know what happened,
we get to issue that we reserve our right to file an anti motion on their behalf as well.
THE COURT: Fair enough.
MS. ROBB: So, I just wanted to bring that up.
THE COURT: Okay. And on the merits of the motion itself.
MS. ROBB: Okay. Thank you, Your Honor.
As we've discussed, we are here on our motion to dismiss under the anti — Texas Anti-
SLAPP
Statute, which is codified at Texas Civil Practice
and Remedies Code 27.001. And I'm sure the Court --
I would like to briefly sort of go through, I guess, an Anti-SLAPP Statute generally, and
then discuss how it applies to this case. And also give you a little background depending
on, I guess, how much background you'd like. I can talk a little bit about the subject of the
~ of the broadcast themselves or not.
First of all, the SLAPP Statute is a strategic lawsuit against public participation. And these
are lawsuits that are without merit, directed at someone who speaks out on a matter of
public concern. It's generally designed to punish those who speak out, to intimidate
speakers, to inhibit the press or the public's right of free speech, to chill free speech and
debate rather than genuinely seek recovery for injuries due to defamation. That's why Texas
is one of 28 jurisdictions that has now passed an Anti-SLAPP law. There is legislation
pending in at least two other jurisdictions and also the U.S. Congress. And to the extent the
Court would have questions about the Anti-SLAPP law or other legislation, my colleague
Ms. Prather is the has more information. So if we get there, she would be happy to, I
believe, to address that.
At this point, though, I want to discuss just a little bit, because the plaintiff has made —
plaintiff hasn't really ~ we're going to go through the actual Texas statute in a minute. But
the plaintiff hasn't really made an argument that it doesn't apply in this instance. What the
plaintiff has done is attack Anti-SLAPP statutes generally, and sort of raise this argument
that: Well, it's not really meant to protect media defendants. It's supposed to protect, sort
of, the impecunious; the, you know, the would-be proverbial little guy. That's certainly one
of the parties it's meant to protect. That's not the only party it's meant to protect. And we
would contend that the media is often the one that is out raising issues of public concern,
educating the public, telling the public
that how their public servants are working, how their public money is being spent, advising
them with issues that matter to them. So in fact the media is ~ is certainly a necessary
beneficiary of this ~ of this law. But not lie to create a story but at the same time destroy
lives.
THE COURT: But it still does not strip the media of their obligations or liabilities, if you
would, under standard defamation law.
MS. ROBB: No. I mean, the defamation statute to the extent when there's a lawsuit like
this, where - and we'll go through the statute itself - where the media is clearly speaking
out at an issue of public concern, there is a heightened standard for the plaintiff to meet ~
to overcome that burden to ~ to sustain the motion to dismiss.
Give you a little bit of background first on the school itself, as Mr. Bowen said. The
plaintiffs originally were two plaintiffs. It was Benji's Special Education Academy and Ms.
Robinson.
The plaintiff is now just Ms. Robinson. She was the superintendent of Benji's Special
Education Academy.
She was also on the board of the charter holder and of the charter school itself. And both
are sort of referred to as Benji's. She is the sole plaintiff that's remaining in the case today.
At the time of the broadcast at issue, and we're going to go through the broadcast in a
minute. Benji's was being investigated by the Texas education agency for a number of
things, including mismanagement in poor financial practices regarding state taxpayer
funds. At that time Benji's had been taken over by the TEA, who had ordered the school's
closure; immediate closure, in fact, once they took over and discovered that the school
literally had no money. They also eventually revoked the schools charter.
Benji's was a school that was responsible for educating hundreds of students and received
over 3.3 or over $3 million in taxpayer funds in the previous year. Mrs. Prather stated
"After years of looking into the school, and we have evidence attached to our motion going
through all ofthis, and this will get to the question ofsubstantial truth. I'm not going to into
that detail today, unless the Court would like us to. But after investigating the school for a
number of years, receiving inadequate responses or no response, and after being -1 think
documented in some instances - prevented from properly investigating the school, they
finally appointed a new board of managers and superintendent to assist Benji's s with its
financial woes.
I would direct you just to two, I believe, pieces of evidence that sort of layout some of the
•*• their financial woes. First of all, Exhibit B to our motion, which is a September 3rd 2010
letter from commissioner of education Robert Scott do members of the charter holder
board.
There's also a SOAH. And we attached the proposal for determination to our motion. Since
that time, the proposal has actually been accepted by the commissioner, and it's now the
final decision. We attached that to our reply. It's essentially the same thing with just a letter
at the front that says, basically: After reviewing this with ~
THE COURT: Right.
MS. ROBB: —this minor change, we accept this. Again, if you look at that, and
specifically at Pages 54 through 55 and findings 55 through 68, you'll see that among other
things the charter holder was subject ~ the subject of a warrant hold for nonpayment to the
teachers retirement system in the of amount of $43,000 and for retirement contributions,
and $13,000 in health coverage. The Department of Agricultural cancelled the charter
holder's participation in child nutrition programs, because the charter holder's failure to
demonstrate physical responsibility. The charter holder owed the IRS a debt of $87,000
unpaid taxes. The board of directors failed to oversee or adequately supervise the financial
resources. And the charter holder failed to properly account for
accrued unreimbursed leave as to liability. This is just a few of the problems that they
encountered.
Because of this, and once ~ once the TEA started really looking into this, took over the
school, KTRK and a number of other media entities reported on this, educating the public
about this matter of public concern. One, talking about educating school children in its
community; two, you're talking about $3 million of taxpayer funds.
So, they clearly reported on what we believe is an issue of public concern community.
THE COURT: The $3 million in funds, though, is just their ~ basically their operating
budget.
MS. ROBB: I'm sorry.
THECOURT: The $3 million in funds is basically their operating budget.
MS. ROBB: That was just for one year.
THE COURT: Right. That's not ~
there is any allegation by the ~ any of the state
authorities, federal authorities, the pension plan,
anything like that that says that the $3 million was
stolen?
MS. ROBB: No. And we never said that it was stolen. And that's what we're going to get
into in a minute.
THE COURT: All right.
6
MS. ROBB: That's actually a critical element in this case, Your Honor.
THE COURT: I agree.
MS. ROBB: So, anyway for reporting on these issues of public concern, KTRK was sued.
So, just a little background on that.
THE COURT: And they're the only one that was sued despite the reports the others made.
MS. ROBB: That is correct, Your Honor. That is correct. The number of — and in fact
plaintiff attached a number ofthe other - or transcripts ofthe other broadcast or the articles
themselves to ~ to their petition. We attached some to our answer. Clearly, a number of
media entities were reporting on this. We were the only one that's been sued.
So, getting back to Anti-SLAPP Statute. First of all, as I said, the plaintiff hasn't argued
that by the wording of this statute it doesn't apply to this instance or to KTRK, They've
made this sort ofgeneral allegation that perhaps Anti-SLAPP Statutes are disfavored. They
attached the California Statute, which is the preeminent statute in the country.
THE COURT: Yeah. I take it that this ~ this statute applies to this situation.
MS. ROBB: Okay. And we've ~ we've briefed that. I won't go ~ sounds like the Court
would like me to move on, so I won't go through that, but we have briefed. If you look at
the Freedman case, it actually goes on to talk about how the California Statute has been
expanded since it was first passed. And in fact has a citation discussing how it —how it
applies to media defendants. And in fact we attached some ~ or we cited to some cases in
our reply. So, clearly, the Anti-SLAPP Statutes apply to media.
In fact, in this instance, in Texas it's a fairly new statute. It's actually been, as far as we
know, three orders have been granted so far granting Anti-SLAPP motions; two actually
here in Harris County, and one elsewhere in Texas. Two of those were attached to our
motion as Exhibits R and S. And we attached the most recent one to our reply as Exhibit
B. I have a copy here, if the Court would like it.
THE COURT: I'm okay. I'm fine. If it's in the ~ if it's in the file I don't need
another one.
MS. ROBB: It's in the reply. Okay.
The defendants in those cases, in one case the defendant was a Dallas BBB. In another
instance, the most recent one, the defendant was the Houston Community College system.
And in the third, the defendant was actually media entities: KPRC, KHOU and the Houston
Chronicle. And in that instance
that's the Vieira versus Jordan case, which is somewhat similar based on investigative
report.
In that case the Harris County Court granted the media defendant's motion to dismiss. Even
though the defendants had misidentified, or identified plaintiffs as suspects in a criminal
investigation. Although it was later determined that the plaintiffs were not involved in the
crimes. So, we think it clearly applies to media defendants. It clearly applies to this case.
I would like to just go briefly through the Texas Anti-SLAPP Statutes, so we
understand what we are required to do and what plaintiffs are required to do at this point.
And I have similar —I have copies where I've highlighted.
We Would offer them, if I may approach?
THE COURT: Sure. Thank you.
MS. ROBB: So in short, the statute says that: The lawsuit arises out of a party's
exercise of its right to free speech. The claim is subject to motion to dismiss which must
be granted, unless plaintiff can establish clear and specific evidence of a prima facie case
for each element it claims. And we'll go through those in a little bit.
But the first step is that the court engages in the analysis determining whether the statute
actually applies. And, again, the wording in the statute if you look at Texas Civil Practice
and Remedies Code 27.003A, it says: The lawsuit is based on, relates to, or is in response
to a party's exercise of the right of free speech, the right to petition, or right of association
the statute applies. The exercise in the right of free speech is also defined in the statute. It's
defined as communication made in connection with a matter ofpublic concern. And if you
look at the statute, that's 27.001.3.
So the next step, assuming that the statute applies, and again we would contend that it does:
The plaintiff must demonstrate by clear and specific evidence a prima facie case for each
element of his or her claim. This means evidence should be sufficient to defeat a motion
for summary judgment.
And I refer the Court to In Re Does case which we cited in our motion, and it's Tab 9 in
your notebook. And in that instance, that was actually a slightly different case.
In that instance, the Court required a defamation plaintiffto establish a prima facie case for
each essential element of the claim. In that instance, he was trying to obtain a identity of
an anonymous defendant. The Court essentially said that it was necessary for the plaintiff
first to support his defamation claim with facts sufficient to defeat a motion for summary
judgment.
The next question is clear and specific. And clear and specific standards is a heightened
standard. It's greater than just a preponderance of the evidence. And that's taken from case
law interpreting the reporter's privilege. And I would direct you to Channel 2 television
versus Dickerson and that's Tab 12 in your notebook. Also, Texas Disposal System, a copy
of that case for the Court and for Mr. Bowen. Here you go, Mr. Bowen. I apologize. I
promise I won't bring to you more things.
THE COURT: That's fine. Thank you.
MS. ROBB: In the Texas Disposal case,
Court says: Evidence is clear and convincing if it supports a firm conviction on behalf of
the trier of fact that the fact to be proved is true. So once again, once the defendant
establishes the Anti-SLAPP Statutes applies to plaintiffs complaint, the burden shifted to
the plaintiff. And dismissal must be granted unless the plaintiffs can meet this very heavy
8
burden establishing a prima facie case for each essential element of the claim under the
heightened standard of
clear and specific. If the plaintiff cannot demonstrate by clear and specific evidence every
element of the claim, the Court must grant the motion to dismiss. And, furthermore, under
the statute, and I would refer you to 27.009A1 and A2, under the statute if the defendant
prevails, they're entitled to and, in fact, the Court must award attorney's fees and sanctions.
Getting into the specifics of this case, again, as I said despite these general attacks on the
Anti-SLAPP Statutes, it's clear that it applies ~ the plaintiff hasn't actually contended that
it doesn't apply. There's clearly nothing in the statute that says you can't be a media
defendant.
You have to be a little guy. It's —it's based on:
Are you speaking out on a matter of public concern?
We think very clearly these reports did concern matters ofpublic concern. Again, they can
turn the TEA's investigation into financial mismanagement of Benji's. The difficulty in
accounting for state funds --
THE COURT: If I deny the motion to dismiss, it's not because I think the statute doesn't
apply or that these types of statements don't fall under the statute.
MS. ROBB: I apologize.
THE COURT: I said if I deny the motion to dismiss, it's not going to be because I think
these types of stations are not public interest or that the statute doesn't apply, et cetera.
MS. ROBB: Okay. Thank you, Your Honor. I'll move on.
_So, I want to « as I said at this point, the burden is on the plaintiff. We've met our burden.
Our burden is simply to demonstrate to the Court that the statute applies. The plaintiffnow
has to prove prima facie case of each element with clear and convincing evidence. Burden
is on the plaintiff.
I do want to go into two issues, just because we think they're so clear from the pleadings
themselves that the plaintiff can't demonstrate them.
First of all, in order to prevail in a liable claim against a media defendant in Texas, the
plaintiff has the burden of establishing the defendant published a non-privileged statement
that was defamatory, that's important; as to plaintiff, that's important, with actual malice
regarding the truth of the statement.
And in this instance, we would contend there are two reasons why plaintiff will have to
show actual malice. One is because we believe she's a public figure, or limited purpose
public figure. And, two, even if the Court doesn't find that, because there are a number of
constitutional statutory privileges that apply, and the Court will have to ~ pardon me, the
plaintiff will have to demonstrate actual malice to overcome privileges.
At this point, I just want to talk about two ofthose, though. And those are that the defendant
published a statement that concerned plaintiff and that was defamatory. Our burden is
simply to demonstrate to the Courtthat the statute applies.The plaintiffhas brought a claim
for liable, per say. That means that the statement is so obviously hurtful that it requires no
proof of injury, and it essentially falls within one of four categories of speech.
And I'm quoting from, again, the case I just gave you, the Texas Disposal System Landfill,
Inc. A false statement will typically be classified
as defamatory, per say, if it injures a person in his office, profession or occupation, charges
a person with a commission ofa crime, imputes sexual misconduct or accuses one ofhaving
a loath-some disease. Now, the only one that's applicable here is the ~ and the only one
that, in fact, plaintiff has alleged is the —charges a person with a commission of a crime.
So, we'll get into that in a minute.
The first element they'll have show, though, is that the statements were of and concerning,
they were about plaintiff. And, again, I refer you to the Huckabee versus Time Warner
Entertainment case and the Newspaper Inc. versus
Matthews. Those are at Tabs 27 and 41. There is to be a cause of action for defamation.
This is just at the very sole ofthe cause of action. The allegedly defamatory statement must
concern the plaintiff. It must be of and concerning the plaintiff. In the instance case, the
plaintiff is not even named in the complaints of statement, not even mentioned in the
complaints of statement.
And I just want to go through those to demonstrate that to the Court. In fact, the plaintiff
is barely even mentioned in the broadcast. And to the extent she is, in one instance, it's
actually laudatory mentioned, someone saying something nice about her. I have the brought
here. And because they're a little hard to read, I went through and just ~ I have the little
piece of paper on the front with the complained-of statements ~
THE COURT: Okay.
MS. ROBB: ~ that we can look at
One for you.
These are actually the exhibits from plaintiffs petition. It's highlighted. So ifwe go through
the complained-of statements, the first one is for — from the September 15th, 2010,
broadcast. And the complained-of statement is: According to the State, millions in taxpayer
dollars cannot be account for. No mention of Ms. Robinson. And the state disclosure is
based on a lack of sufficient financial records, meaning state doesn't know where the over
$3 million of taxpayer money given last year has been spent. Again, no mention of Ms.
Robinson. That's Exhibit 2 to plaintiffs amended complaint. Exhibit 3 has the complained-
ofstatementsare essentiallythe same, a little bit different. For the State the issue is simple:
Where is the money? They say millions of taxpayer dollars are unaccounted for. The state
closure is based on a lack of sufficient financial records, meaning, the State doesn't know
where the more than $3 million of taxpayer money given last year has been spent.
Again, there's absolutely no mention of Ms. Robinson in those complained-of statements.
That was Exhibit 3.
Going to Exhibit 6. This is the story published on defendant's website on September 25th.
10
The complained-of statement: Where is taxpayer money going? And how is taxpayer
owning buildings being used? The Texas Education Agency says it doesn't know how
Benji's spent $3 million of taxpayer money.
In a lease agreement obtained by eyewitness news raises new questions. Again, no mention
of Ms. Robinson. There is mention of Benji's. Benji's is no longer a plaintiff in this case,
even ifthis was otherwise sufficient. Similarly, the Exhibit 8, which is the September 27th
article: The Texas Education Agency doesn't know how the academy spent $3 million of
state money. Again, no mention of Ms. Robinson, only a mention of the academy.
Let me get to Exhibit 9, which is the September 30th article. Complained-of statement it
is: The State says it has no choice, alleging Benji's did not provide proper financial records
to account for over $3 million of state funding the past year. Again, no mention of Ms.
Robinson.
Finally, the October 11th article, and that is Exhibit 10: On September 14th, the TEA
ordered Benji's Academy to close citing millions of dollars in state funding that was not
accounted for; again, no mention of Ms. Robinson.
So, we would contend that on this very fundamental issue, there is no way that plaintiffs
can - can demonstrate that the statement is of and concerning Ms. Robinson. There's no
mention of her at all. In fact, if you look at the broadcast themselves, there's hardly a
mention of her in any broadcast at all. In two of the broadcasts, she's not even mentioned.
Her name is never mentioned. In two of the broadcasts she's mentioned only in reference
to a statement. Let me read it to the Court. Let me see, right here. And it says it's from a
student. This is a ~ hardly a defamatory statement, it says:
Ms. Robinson -- Ms. Robinson, she sit down and talk to you, other schools would just
suspend you. That's the only reference to her even in the broadcast.
THE COURT: What was her role at the school?
MS. ROBB: Pardon me?
THE COURT: What was her role at the school?
MS. ROBB: She was the superintendent.
THE COURT: The head of it.
MS. ROBB: The head of the school.
THE COURT: How many other administrative employees did the school have?
MS. ROBB: That, I don't know. I believe Mr. Bowen could probably answer that. There
was a school board that had a number of members and, then, also a charter holder board
that had a few members, and she was a member of both of those as well.
THE COURT: Okay.
MS. ROBB: I don't know how many administrators. I believe the school had about, I believe
it went up and down but had about, I think, around 160 at the time of the closing.
THE COURT: Okay.
MS. ROBB: Students, that is.
So, anyway, as I said it's our contention that she's not even mentioned in the
li
MS. ROBB: We view those slightly differently -
THE COURT: Which of --
MS. ROBB: - but at the end of the day ~
THECOURT: Which ofthose would you rather have published in the Texas Lawyer? One
ofthem has to be published in the Texas Lawyer, which would you rather have published?
MS. ROBB: I'd rather not have either of them.
THE COURT: One of them has to be, in my hypothetical—
MS. ROBB: 'Um ~
THE COURT: —that you're a sloppy a record keeper, or that you have no earthly idea
where any of your client trust funds monies are?
MS. ROBB: Well, I -
THE COURT: You've got to answer my question, Ms. Robb. You've got to answer my
question
before you say anything else.
MS. ROBB: Okay. 'Um, I mean, I would think I would likely ~ I probably would prefer the
first.
THE COURT: I agree on both counts, that you wouldprobablypreferthe first, and that you
would have lost your credibility had you said otherwise.
MS. ROBB: Thank you. I mean, I think, you know, I had to concede that.
That does not meanthat this statement is defamatory, per say, though. It doesn't meanthat
necessarily that that statement would be. Again, we're talking about the commission of a
crime. We're talking about how the average person would perceive this. 'Um ~ and, again,
Ms. Robinson's interpretation of these is immaterial for purposes ofthe defamation claim,
especially -THE COURT: So under -
MS. ROBB: —about when we're talking about ~
THE COURT: —the reasonable person standard or the person on the street standard, it is
your position that rather than being accused of a sloppy record keeper, that someone sees
in the Texas Lawyer that you have no earthly idea where any of your client trust fund
monies are, that the average person on the street wouldn't perceive that as criminal?
MS. ROBB: I don't think that's what we said about what ~ we certainly didn't say it about
Ms. Robinson. I don't believe that's what was said about the ~ about Benji's s, even. And
one thing is you have to look —
THE COURT: The State doesn't know where the over $3 million given to the taxpayer -
of the taxpayer dollars were spent —how they've been spent.
MS. ROBB: Yeah.
MS. PRATHER: Your Honor -
MS. ROBB: That is true. That's what - that's ~ that's a true statement. Defendant had or,
excuse me, plaintiffhas the burden of demonstrating substantial falsity. The gist of the
statement is true. The statement is substantially true.
13
complainedVof statements, and barely mentioned in the broadcast. The two that do also
mention- or mention herin relation to a lease issue, which is
another issue that's not subject to this and, again, certainly doesn't accuse her of a crime.
So, the second issue here that we want to just discuss briefly is, is the plaintiffhas brought
a claim for liable per say. So, again, this is something that's so obviously hurtful that it
requires no proof of injury. And to be liable per say —first of all, to prove that this is
defamatory liable, per say, first of all, it has to be substantially false. It has to be
defamatory. And because she's alleged liable, per say, and has alleged sort of the four
options, the crime option, it has to also charge her with a commission of a crime.
And, again, I don't want to take up to much time and go through each one of those
statements with the Court. But it's clear that not only do the statements not mention her,
they certainly don't accuse her of a crime ~ of a crime. There's nothing intrinsically
defamatory about defendant's statements that the State of Texas believed that Benji's was
mismanaging state funds and wanted to know how the money that it gave Benji's was used.
The plaintiff has alleged that she's establisheda prime facial case of liable, per say, because
she asserts that defendant's insinuated that she embezzled over 3 million and implied
criminal behavior. Again, we would contend, if you look at the complained-of statements,
they never say-
Embezzled. They never say: Misappropriated. They never mention or imply any sort of
criminal behavior. They just didn't ~ simply didn't accuse her of a crime.
THE COURT: Let me ask you this, Ms.
Robb, if I said that Sedgwick, well, your law firm, you yourself ~
MS. ROBB: Uh-huh.
THE COURT: —not your law firm, but you yourself, you weren't a very good record
keeper. You're a sloppy record-keeper. Or if I said: Ms. Robb has no idea, she can't tell us
where any of her client's trust fund money is. Is there a difference in those two statements,
legally?
MS. ROBB: Is there a difference legally this those two statements? The statements are:
She's a poor manager of funds, and I apologize ~
THE COURT: A poor record keeper.
MS. ROBB: A poor record keeper.
THE COURT: And the other is: Ms.
Robb has no idea where any of the money that her clients put in her trust fund account is.
MS. ROBB: I mean, there's certainly, a difference in the words of those statements. I don't
think either of those accuse you of a crime, certainly not —again, in this instance it's
defamatory, per say. So, it has to accuse you of a crime. You can't look at implications.
You can't look at ~ you certainly can't look at - and this has nothing to do with it being,
per say, this just has to be with defamation laws, strict defamation law. It doesn't matter if
theinterpretation that theplaintiffhas, it's the interpretation of a reasonable average person.
THE COURT: Which it owes -
12
And that's exactly —again, you have to also look at the full context talking about how the
state wasn't getting proper documentation for these.
THE COURT: What were you going to say Ms. Prather?
MS. PRATHER: Well, I was just going to say your hypothetical is as to —as to Ms. Robb
or Ms. Robinson what the broadcast talked about was a third party.
THE COURT: The school.
MS. PRA THER: The state.
THE COURT: That's right.
MS. PRATHER: The state didn't know where the money was. And there were years of
mismanagement from 2005 on and financial improper record keeping that the State could
not figure out the money. So, you're looking at a third party.
It would be almost as though the IOLTA account holder. The bank says: We don't know
where the money is. That would be a similar scenario, because you're talking about the
third party state not knowing. That's what KTRK recorded was the State not knowing where
the money is and the years, more than six years of financial mismanagement and lack of
accountability.
THE COURT: We only have 30 more minutes before another hearing comes in. So, I need
to give —
MS. PRATHER: Okay.
THE COURT: —the plaintiffa chance to respond. So ~ and ifwe're going to have any back
and forth some more, you need to wrap up your comments soon.
MS. ROBB: Absolutely. Thank you, Your Honor. I'm —that's about all I can just essentially.
Again, we believe that at this point the burden is on the plaintiff. The plaintiff has to
demonstrate each element by clear and convincing evidence. It has to make a prima facie
case. We're happy to, if the Court would like us to, later on address the other elements. I
only brought those up to at this point, because I think those two are pretty clear just from
looking at the pleadings. Again, we would ask that you grant our motion and award us
attorney's fees and sanctions. Thank you.
THE COURT: Mr. Bowen, are you going to respond or Ms. Archambault?
MR. BOWEN: Your Honor, I will
respond.
THE COURT: Go ahead.
MR. BOWEN: Your Honor, the question of whether or not the publication was directed to
Mrs. Robinson, even though her name was not mentioned, the law of Texas since, at least
the NewspaperInc. versusMatthews case, is that the person who's defamed does not need
to be named in the article.
THE COURT: If they are capable of being identified —
MR. BOWEN: If.
THE COURT: ~ under the circumstances.
MR, BOWEN: If ~ if it's - whether
14
it's written ~ it's not necessary for the plaintiff to prove that the intended ~ to the plaintiff
it's —is the recipient understands that's who it was directed to. Ms. Robinson's affidavit is
of record. Your Honor asked about her involvement with this school. Ms. Robinson formed
this school in 1981, 17 years before it became an open enrollment charter school, fifteen
years before we even had a law permitting Open enrollment charter schools. Ms. Robinson
was Benji's Academy. And I submit, and I stated this in my pleadings and in my argument,
I believe, that these standards for determining, for a Court to determine whether or not it
would reasonably directed to a particular person were evolved. The - the Newspapers case
is a 1960 decision of the Texas Supreme Court.
We have this tremendous resource now called the Internet. And much ofmy proof is based
on the feedback of the recipients, the general public to whom the ~ were the recipient
ofthese news reports. And those, I believe, establish the prima facie proof when they write
in their responses:
Throw this person in jail, not because she's black because, she's a thief. She needs to be at
the cross bar hotel; Ms. Robinson, Ms. Robinson, Ms. Robinson.
The record before Your Honor is replete with these types of statements from the general
public, from the recipients to whom this was directed. The other point I will make is this
statement ofthe ~ this ~ this handout she just gave me, which I really like, that really puts
these statements in isolation. And I will submit to Your Honor that there is nothing in the
record anywhere
where ~ where the defendant's claim that the State of Texas ever told them that over $3
million of taxpayer money is missing. They're not reporting that.
Exhibit V to their motion to dismiss is the only statement in the record ofthe State ofTexas,
ofthe state education agency. The press release that they released on the 14th of September
2010, and that is the statement that became the subject ofthe reporting of all the other news
agencies, as we've talked about, and of this new agency that we've talked about.
That statement simply says that: Oh, well, this school is being closed because it's no longer
financially viable, period. That was what was reported by the other news agency. As hard
as it is for me to believe, but the record is what demonstrates it now, is that all ofthis about
the state not knowing where $3 million in taxpayers funds was spent over the last year is
made up by these people; completely made up.
And, furthermore, to get back to the beginning, there was no investigation going on. This
school was under complete control of the state. They controlled the bank accounts. They
had all the financial records. Annual audits had been filed and reported. They're trying to
pick and - and - and grasp little things that in —in the year 2005, they —they stopped
getting their free lunch
programs because they didn't fill the forms out right. I would submit to Your Honor,
mismanagement and misappropriation are not on a continuum. They're not matters of a
degree. These are qualitatively different the matters.
The statute states that one of its purposes is that meritorious claims are to be
15
protected. And it also states that it does not change the law at all. The law of defamation is
to survive this intact. If we are out there trying to quell public discussion, stop the news
media, stop anything, then we deserve to be slapped by the Anti-SLAPP law or whatever
it is.
But the law specifically says that its purpose is to encourage and safeguard the
Constitutional Rights of person to petition, speak freely, associate freely, or otherwise
participate in government to the maximum extent permitted by law.
And at the same time protect the rights of a person to file meritorious lawsuits for
demonstrable injury.
That is where we are. Yes, we have a burden to put on a prima facie case that they —there's
no disagreement about the publication.
There's no disagreement about the contents of this statement. Have we proved prima facie
that it was defamatory? Yes. Because the intended recipient, entire context test
demonstrates, and I submit again, Your Honor, that we're in the year 2012, and we have
this Internet that guides the Court and helps the Court, and that we got the feedback from
the public.
We don't have to look at the statements and determine whether this could, in fact, have
happened. Whether we're reaching to tell you that this could be the import, or the meaning,
or the way it was perceived. We have it in the record that person after person is saying:
Throw her in jail.
She is a thief, Mrs. Robinson personally. We have carried our burden of bringing a prima
facie case on that point. Just because this law, that's so broadly worded and so vague has
been passed, it doesn't mean that we have a new era of irresponsibility of the press. We
never tried to quell anything as a matter of public discussion here. All the news media
reported this.
We have contrasted responsible reporting without an out-and-out defamation, per say, that
is not based on anything that the State of Texas said that is grossly irresponsible. And it
has been devastatingly damaging to a woman that was laboring the poorest ghetto of the
city for 30 years to try to help special children. Not only was her baby, this school, taken
away from her summarily, which is not the subject of a Civil Rights action in Federal Court
along with this administrative procedure, that they tried to somehow bring into the issue of
whether or not we've stated a prima facie case. But ~
THE COURT: If this school were in the heart of River Oaks or the Memorial Villages
serving only affluent kids, would it make any difference to the analysis?
MR. BOWEN: Absolutely not.
Absolutely not.
Anyway, Your Honor, I submit that we have carried our burden. I submit that we -1 submit
that they can't have it both ways. And a very interesting case that lends some support to
that proposition, although I'll quite frankly confess that
16
I'm not sure I completely understand it, but it's a case following Newspapers versus
Matthews, and that's Allied Marketing Group versus Paramount Pictures Corporation at
111 S.W. 3d 168. And I have a copy for the Court to add to this as well.
But, again, that's another case in which the plaintiffwas not identified specifically by name
in the defamatory article. And the question is raised: How can you be a public figure if
you're not even named in the article? So, I don't believe we're a public figure. But I do
believe that even if the public figure test applies, as I've set forth in my memorandum, the
statement of the United States
Supreme Court on that is very clear. Even in a defamation ofa public official, the defendant
will not be likely to prevail where the publisher's allegation are so inherently probable -
improbable that only a reckless man Would have put them in circulation.
This school was running since 1998 with a $3 million annual budget. There were 40 staff
and teachers teaching these schools every day. Buses were running. Meals were being
served. Coaches were teaching physical education, band, teams, I'm sorry to say that the
entire $3.3 million is unaccounted for is grossly irresponsible and completely improbable.
I have met my burden. Mrs. Robinson has met he burden under the stat ~ Anti-SLAPP law,
and
this action should be allowed to proceed. Thank you.
THE COURT: Last word.
MS. PRATHER: Yes, Your Honor. Just a few different things here.
To give you a little more background ofthe ~ ofthe case. This is the third time that KTRK,
that — that the defendants in this case have faced a lawsuit from Ms. Robinson over these
same broadcasts. So, you know, they originally sued Disney in Federal Court. We told
them: You've got the wrong entity. We gave them a bunch of cases and orders showing
that Disney —there is a jurisdiction over Disney in this instance. Exactly the opposite is
the argument that they're trying to make, and have no case to support for jurisdiction over
Disney.
Then they tried to bring them into the TEA, case and the judge wouldn't allow them to
grant leave to bring them into that case. So, this is now the third time that we've had to
defend against these —this sort of— this lawsuit from the same plaintiff. The real beefhere
is against the TEA. The TEA shut down her school. It's not against us. And the —the
statements that were made by the viewers, they have coalesced all of those statements into
one place.
But the statements made by the viewers of the KHOU broadcast, and the statements made
by the viewers of the KRIB broadcast -1 mean, there are similar defendants in this lawsuit
- were the same or similar to the statements made by those who watched the KTRK
broadcast. So, ifthose two broadcasts were not something that liable is made of, how come
those recipients and viewers came to the similar conclusions? We've established the test
here. The test is: Was this to protect activity? Yes, it's protective activity because it's a
matter of public concern that discussed. It falls within the definition under 27.007 or,
17
excuse me, 001 sub 7. Clear and specific, we haven't discussed a whole lot, but that's a
heightened standard. They have to be able to establish material falsity. The documents that
are attached to the pleadings, and specifically the SOAH findings show very clearly that
financial is management, lack of failure or failure to pay IRS loans, failure to pay loans
that required hot lunches to continue, failure to pay teacher retirement system, all of those
things were reoccurring problems for this school. And the record is replete with
documentation showing and exemplifying exactly the basis for the statements made in the
KTRK broadcast.
I don't want to get hung up on the "of and" concerning issue, but the case of Cox versus
Penick, which is behind Tab 14. This is a case about the Bastrop County DA. And the
article at issue was discussing the prosecution's case being based on false premise. The
Court held that that was not sufficiently of and concerning Mr. Penick, the DA, in Bastrop
County. Even though he might be identified with the DA's office, since he is the DA, it was
still not sufficiently of and concerning him as mentioned in the article. The test that you
look at when you're determining substantial truth or material falsity, which is their burden,
is you look at the entire context of the broadcast. If you look at the entire context of the
broadcast, it's very clear they're talking about: The State is really upset, because we can't
find the money. We have gave them a bunch of money. We can't find the money. This is a
reoccurring probable. That is substantially true.
She, Ms. Robinson, has not denied the substantial truth ofthat statement. She —in fact, she
has admitted to the substantial truth of those statements, that there was repeated financial
mismanagement. Her issue is with the amount. And we've cited in our reply a litany of
cases that talk about the fact of the gist of the statement being correct. The amount makes
no difference. It's the gist of the statement, which is the money couldn't be accounted for.
It was financially mismanaged. The amount doesn't matter. And that's really what her
complaint is. Her complaint is they shut down her school.
THE COURT: What if there was a difference between the gist and the amount in the order
of magnitude of 10,000?
MS. PRATHER: In the order of 10,000,
Texas Courts have already said that's okay.
THE COURT: So a 10,000-times difference is no concern?
MS. PRATHER: I don't know about 10,000 times. But we have the Rogers versus Dallas
Morning News case. We have the Dolcefino case. We have a litany cases that are cited in
our reply that address very specifically the fact that substantial truth inaccuracies as to an
amount ~
THE COURT: Those cases were three and four times, though —
MS. PRATHER: 'Um.
THE COURT: ~ the amount, correct?
MS. PRATHER: You know, I don't - I
18
believe some are more than that, Your Honor. I believe some were substantially more. 43
percent of its donation, if_you look at the Rogers versus Dallas Morning Case, it said that
the newspaper's inaccurate statement that a charity only spent 10 percent of its donations
on actual services when, in fact, they spent 43 percent.
THE COURT: That's four times.
MS. PRATHER: Okay. You're better and quicker at math than I.
THE COURT: It's that accounting degree I've got.
MS. PRATHER: But there's ~ you know, there are ~ there are a bunch of other cases as
well.
The fact ofthe matter is nobody that TEA gave examples of money that was missing. Lots
of examples of money that was missing, and lots of examples that ~ that ~ that consisted
of a total sum that was significant.
THE COURT: That was the 43,000, the 13,000, the 87,000.
MS. PRATHER: 250,000 default judgment against the school, 87,000 taxes to the IRS;
inadequate disclosures of federal funding expenditures, who knows how much that is;
unpaid retirement contribution and health coverage premiums; the Texas retirement
system, don't know how much that was. The school in general being treated as a high risk
grantee, and more and more and more. And this was something that was going on for six
years.
So you focus on, you know, a particular year is not focusing on the entire context. The
entire context is a history of improper record keeping and money unaccounted for since
2005, So I think —I think we're getting outside the entire context by trying to narrow in the
way that —that's being suggested.
'Um, the public figure test, Your Honor, as well, there ~ well, let me finish with substantial
truth. The substantial truth, they've not established material falsity, in fact, they've
conceded to the substantial truth, the fact that it was mismanaged the school, had financial
mismanagement problems. This is also a report on allegations being made by TEA. And
Texas has a long line of cases that deal with when a media defendant reports on a third
party allegation, they don't have to prove that the underlying allegation was true. That's for
them to fight about in their TEA lawsuit. All we have to do is say: We reported on the
allegation being made. We accurately reported the allegation, which we did. And we met
the substantial truth test by doing so. It's interesting and worth noting that even within these
broadcasts, there's a statement that was made that says, from one of the members of the
board, that says: We don't know no of any fraud or misuse of funds specifically absolving
Ms. Robinson of any guilt, if any guilt were implied. That was included in the broadcast.
If you look beyond substantial truth, which we don't think that you need to, but if you do,
then you still get to the privileges, the privileges that are contained in Chapter 73 of the
Texas Civil
Practice and Remedies Code that talk about fair report and fair comment. And we have
established that this was a fair comment on a matter of public concern, and that there were
19
reports on governmental proceedings. Both of those are protected under Chapter 73. And
in order to overcome those, you have to establish actual malice. It does not appear that
based on Ms. Robinson's papers that there is any evidence to overcome the state of mind
of the defendant, excuse me, of the defendants that have been attached to our affidavits.
And the third issue, of course, is they ultimately have to establish actual malice,
because Ms. Robinson as is limited purpose public figure. This is about a matter of public
concern.
She's a limited purpose public figure because she pressed herself into the vortex of this
controversy.
This is apparent by her defiance of the TEA order to close the school among other things.
Your Honor, ifyou have any questions, I'm happy to answer them. We ~ obviously, they're
very upset by what the respondents ~ or the viewers said. We aren't responsible for what
the viewers said. They're upset about that. That's not competent evidence in this instance.
Ms. Robinson's affidavit, also, is not competent evidence in this instance.
But if you look at the SOAH findings, if you look at the law on defamation dealing with
substantial truth, dealing with privileges and dealing with actual malice, it's very clear that
they can't meet their heightened burden of clear and specific evidence. All they have are
inferences and suppositions being made by somebody who was not identified in the bulk
of these broadcasts.
THE COURT: Mr. Bowen, is there anything else you want to add?
MR. BOWEN: Just briefly. I'll state it again. There's no evidence in the record that the State
of Texas ever told the defendants that any money was unaccounted for, none. And once
again, any poor record keeping, any financial mismanagement is not substantially true of
the allegation that over three-and-a-half-million dollars ($3,500,000) in taxpayer money
cannot be accounted for. There's nothing to tie that statement back to the State ofTexas or
its agency. It is made up wholly by the defendants, and its defamatory character and
damaging nature is clear to anyone.
Thank you.
THE COURT: Okay. Let me do some noodling. I haven't read the last pleading that the
defendants filed, so, let me look at that. And, then, depending what happens there, I suspect
we'll have a couple other fights, either a similar fight or a jurisdictional fight, et cetera. So,
let me deal with this. And, then, we'll figure out where to go from there.
All right. Have a good day, folks.
MS. PRATHER: Thank you, Your Honor.
MS. ROBB: Thank you.
(We adjourned at 3:27p.m.)
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF HARRIS
I, Norma Alicia Duarte, Official Court Reporter in and for the 234TH District Court of
Harris, State of Texas, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing contains a true and
correct transcription of all portions of evidence and other proceedings requested in writing
by counsel for the parties to be included in this volume of the Reporter's Record in the
above-styled and numbered cause, all of which occurred in open court or in chambers and
were reported by me.
I further certify that this Reporter's Record of the proceedings truly and correctly reflects
the exhibits, if any, offered by the respective parties.
I further certify that the total cost for the preparation ofthis Reporter's Record is $0 pauper's
oath to THEOLA ROBINSON.
/S/NORMA ALICIA DUARTE
Norma Alicia Duarte, CSR
Texas CSR 7751
Official Court Reporter
234TH District Court
Harris County, Texas
201 Caroline, Room 1304
Houston, Texas 77002
Telephone: (713) 368-6354
Expiration: 12/31/12
21
EXHIBIT C AUDITS
EXHIBIT C
2008-2009
Charter District - School Accreditation
FIRST Per 19 TAC 109.1002 (e)
for Fiscal Year 2008-2009
CD Number Charter District: BENJI'S SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL
101820 ACADEMY
Charter Holder: Benji's Special Educational Academy, Inc.
(A) The annual financial audit report was received within 180 days after Yes
close fiscal year.
Fiscal Year August 31 Date Due: 2/27/2010 Date Received: 1/29/2010
(B) The annual financial audit report indicates assets 2 80% of liabilities. Yes
Total Assets: $1,523.,837
Total Liabilities:
$41,100
80 percent ofTotal Liabilities: $335,280
Excess Assets over Liabilities: $1,188,557
(C) The annual financial audit report did not indicate a qualified or
adverse opinion or an opinion disclaimed because of a scope
limitation Rating Issued
limitation Assessment Issued
STANDARD ACHIEVEMENT Yes
* In order to achieve a "Meets Standard", the charter school must receive a
"Yes" on all ofthe above indicators. The rating is "Substandard"
ifthe charter school receives a "No" onany of the above indicators.
If no audit report is received, the rating is Suspended-Data Quality".
EXHIBIT C
AUDIT 2007-2008
Charter School Accreditation
Financial Review Per 19 TAC 97.1055 for Fiscal Year 2007-2008
C?nNumber Charter School: BENJI'S SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL
ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL
Benji's Special Educational Academy, Inc.
Charter Holder:
Yes
(A) The annual financial audit report was received within 180 days
after close of fiscal year.
Fiscal Year August 31 Date Due: 2/27/2009 Date received: 2/27/2009
(B) The annual financial audit report indicates assets 80% of Yes
liabilities.
Total Assets: $1,552,289
Total Liabilities: $469,417
80 percent of Total Liabilities: $375,534
Excess Assets over Liabilities; $1,176,755
(C) The annual financial audit report did not indicate a qualified
or adverse opinion or an opinion disclaimed because of a scope
limitation Assessment Issued
MEETS STANDARD Yes
* In order to achieve a "Meets Standard", the charter school must receive a "Yes" on all of the above
indicators. Therating is "Substandard" ifthe charter school receives a "No" on anyof the above
indicators. If no audit report is received, the rating is "Suspended-Data Quality".
Monday, July 13,2009
EXHIBIT D TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY EMAILS
TEA EMAILS
FurhthitT)
Below are a few emails that was submitted in Mrs. Prather's brief. Other conspired
emails are available to prove malice toward Benji's Special Educational and Theaola
Robinson.
In a message dated 6/16/2009 3:59:04 P.M. Central Daylight Time,
Jim.Thompson@tea.state.tx.us writes:
The last time we talked you indicated that your directives were receiving grudging
compliance but compliance. What else has happened? Is it time,for us to consider
further steps?
Thompson, Jim; Rowell, Ronald, Taylor,
Shelley In a message dated 6/1/2009 4:13:14 P.M. Central Daylight Time,
In a message dated 6/1/2009 4:21:17 P.M Central Daylight Time
Jim.Thompson@tea.state.tx.us writes:
I don't know or care about one or two months, but I am getting push back from
Tritico and I don't see this as a smart fight. You can direct the second hiring when
that time comes, and we will simply have more information-for example whether
its breaking the budget. Unless we risk losing the person I don't get it. Is that
agreeable to all? And yes, we could lose the person but then we would just be back
to the same place we are now, ss
From: Don Hooper [dhooper@cqLnet]
Sent: Wednesday, March 24,2010 1:48 PM
To: Ronald Rowell
Subject: Re: I will do
Sent from my iPhone Dr Don Hooper
On Mar 24,2010, at 11:58 AM, Ronald",Rowell@tea.state.tx.us> wrote:
In the March monthly report you both need to list some points or all the points that
you can identify where your efforts or directives have not been followed and use
this as a reason on why you both are recommending an elevation in the sanction.
RR
From: Rowell, Ronald
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2010 3:47 PM
To: dhooper@cgl.net
Sounds like a good plan to me. Once we receive your report we will need to talk
with the powers to be up here on what they think.
REQUESTED
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