Libel by Ex-employee

[portebebe]

What is the name of your state? Texas

An employee recently resigned in a very disgruntled manner and has resorted to the following behaviors. First, he verbally accosted me over the telephone with foul language and comment like "...you haven't heard the last of me..." Second, he used one of his friend's email accounts to send out a slanderous email about our company. Third, he contacted authorities with false complaints about our company that is costing us time and effort to respond to these baseless allegations. What legal actions can be taken to prevent any further libel and defamation from this disgruntled ex-employee?

 

[Katy W.]

What did the email say? Is it true? Who did he send it to?

Written form = libel.

Complaints are almost always protected activity.

 

[seniorjudge]

What is the name of your state? Texas

An employee recently resigned in a very disgruntled manner and has resorted to the following behaviors. First, he verbally accosted me over the telephone with foul language and comment like "...you haven't heard the last of me..." Second, he used one of his friend's email accounts to send out a slanderous email about our company. Third, he contacted authorities with false complaints about our company that is costing us time and effort to respond to these baseless allegations. What legal actions can be taken to prevent any further libel and defamation from this disgruntled ex-employee?

We would need facts, not conclusions, in order to answer your questions.

 

[portebebe]

Basically, my question - is there anything we can or should do to protect ourselves so that his behavior does not progress any further?

I know he's entitled to his opinion, but he is handling this matter very unprofessionally and immaturely. I just want to know if there is anything I can do to protect my business & family.

Personally, I feel if we ignore this immaturity, then he'll hopefully move on, get a job and leave us alone. So much for him ever using us as a reference!

 

[seniorjudge]

Q: is there anything we can or should do to protect ourselves so that his behavior does not progress any further?

A: I don't know of any way to control other people's behavior. I wish I did!