Wrongfully accused turkey thieves awarded $4 million in defamation lawsuit

Image by Flickr user Alan Vernon.

A South Carolina jury has awarded Robert and Jennifer Klippel $4 million in a defamation lawsuit that began back in 2004 when the pair were accused and arrested on the charge of stealing a neighbor's pet turkeys.

The Klippels sued Ralph Dupps, the turkey owner, claiming their arrest caused public humiliation and emotional distress. After five days of testimony, the Klipples are now $4 million richer and their lives are turkey free.

The Island Packet of Hilton Head has the background on the case if you're itching for more. If not, The State has the wire release concerning the final verdict.

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