London Mayor, Randall Weddle, responds to defamation suits
LONDON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – London Mayor Randall Weddle is pushing back against defamation lawsuits filed against him, stating that his comments were based on fact and not defamatory.
Three men—James Phelps, John Phelps, and Elijah Jarvis—have filed suits against Weddle, alleging he made defamatory social media posts about them. The Phelps brothers, both retired from the Kentucky State Police, claim Weddle referenced their brother, Doug Phelps, in a post questioning his stance on corruption and mentioning them in connection.
During a press conference, Weddle said the men have been attacking him online because he refused to hire their brother. He insists that everything he has stated about them is true.
Doug Phelps pleaded guilty to child pornography and witness tampering charges in 2013 but was later pardoned by former Governor Matt Bevin. Weddle has openly questioned the pardon, given the guilty plea.
Weddle’s attorney, Jeremy Bryant, provided ABC36 with documents that reportedly contain interviews with alleged victims and other court records, which he claims reveal corruption in London. Bryant emphasized that his client welcomes criticism but will not tolerate falsehoods.
“We are here with the truth, and if they proceed on after today (Thursday), they will be doing so to their detriment,” Bryant said.
Weddle maintains that his statements are factual and do not constitute defamation.
ABC36 has reached out to attorney Brandon Voelkner, who represents the Phelps brothers and Jarvis, for comment. He has stated that he will be available at a later time.
