



Wheeler v. Laudani
1986.C06.41982 783 F.2D 610
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- $0.99
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- $0.99
Publisher Description
Following a jury trial in the Wayne County [Michigan] Circuit Court, appellant A. David Laudani was found liable for $349,000 in damages for publishing and distributing a libelous document which accused appellees James and Sheila Wheeler of exploiting Mr. Wheelers public office of City Councilman for personal benefit. When Laudani subsequently filed bankruptcy, the Wheelers objected to discharge of the libel debt on the basis that the Bankruptcy Code of 1978, 11 U.S.C. § 523(a)(6), prohibits discharge of a debt which results from a willful and malicious injury caused by the debtor to another or his property. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan granted summary judgment for the Wheelers, holding that the libel verdict necessarily encompassed a finding that Laudani acted willfully and maliciously. The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan affirmed. This appeal ensued.