Coin company’s defamation suit dismissed

Universal Coin and Bullion recently had its defamation suit dismissed.

Universal filed a lawsuit Sept. 11 in Jefferson County District Court against John Doe, alleging the unknown man from Virginia engaged in defamatory statements against the company and accused it of selling coins for more than their worth.

Court records show that on Feb. 13 Judge Kent Walston granted Universal’s motion to dismiss without prejudice.

The order states no answer or cross-claim was ever filed by the John Doe.

Universal alleged Doe utilized multiple aliases to anonymously publish and post false statements regarding the company, which sells gold, silver and other coins throughout the United States.

Universal sought actual and special damages of more than $200,000 but no more than $1 million, plus attorney fees, costs, pre- and post-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.

Bruce M. Partain of Wells, Peyton, Greenberg & Hunt LLP in Beaumont represents Universal Coin.

Case No. A196-105