HOUSTON — A Harris County woman is being accused of posting a libelous and defamatory comment on a Houston gun shop's Facebook page about one of its employees.
Battle Riffle Company LLC and Matthew Barret Bilek filed a complaint March 15 in Harris County District Court against Amanda Nelson also known as Amanda Bilek alleging libelous defamation.
According to the plaintiffs' complaint, Matthew Bilek worked at the Battle Rifle Company located in Harris County. They allege that on Feb. 24, 2021, Amanda Nelson posted a review on the Battle Rifle Company Facebook page claiming that the Battle Rifle "knowingly hires people convicted of domestic violence felonies," according to the suit.
The plaintiffs further allege that Nelson also commented in the Facebook post that consumers should reconsider giving Battle Rifle business because they are breaking the law by hiring "criminals" who are not allowed to work with guns and referred to Matthew Bilek by name throughout the post.
The plaintiffs claim that Nelson also posted a link to a six-year old court document regarding Matthew Bilek being prohibited from possessing fire arms.
They also claim Matthew Bilek received a deferred adjudication years ago and that the misdemeanor charge was dismissed and he has no criminal conviction that prohibits him from possessing a firearm.
The plaintiffs allege Nelson's statements are libelous and were seen by a "multitude of persons" and have caused over $1 million in combined loss including to their reputations.
The plaintiffs seek monetary relief, trial by jury and all other just relief. They are represented by Attorney Kent Lee.
Harris County District Court case number 2021-14807