Vanessa Bryant Wins Lawsuit for Illicit Leak of Crash Photos
Vanessa Bryant wins court case for the graphic photos authorities shared of the 2020 helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant, their daughter Gianna, and seven others.
As a result, Vanessa Bryant sued authorities for violating her privacy and causing emotional distress. According to NPR, Bryant reveals her anxieties about the potential release of these photos. She testifies “I live in fear every day of being on social media and these popping up.”
Singers Ciara, Monica join Vanessa Bryant at trial over Kobe crash photos https://t.co/lq8owx4FcQ pic.twitter.com/EjwF0h0Qd7
— New York Post (@nypost) August 22, 2022
As reported by The New York Times, the jury determined the Sheriff and Fire Department didn’t have proper training and policies to prevent this situation. Bryant’s Lawyer Luis Li stated, “there has been a long-standing practice among deputies of sharing death images for no legitimate reasons.”
The 11-day trial took place at the Los Angeles federal court. When the jurors finally read that the verdict was in Bryant’s favor, she was overcome with emotion and left the courthouse.
Bryant took to instagram to celebrate the emotional win. She posted a photo of her with her husband and Gianna, writing, “All for you! I love you! JUSTICE for Kobe and Gigi!”
Vanessa Bryant’s post on IG after the verdict:
— A.J. Perez (@byajperez) August 25, 2022
“All for you! I love you! JUSTICE for Kobe and Gigi! #Betonyourself #MambaDay 8•24•22 💜💛💜💛 #MambaMentality” pic.twitter.com/g2hXI5fsRZ
ABC News reveals the jury awarded Vanessa Bryant $16 million. The money will be donated to the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to giving sports education to children. The organization was founded through the memory and love of Kobe and Gianna “Gigi” Bryant. The foundation has helped over 9,000 youth with the support of 1,000 volunteers.
Vanessa Bryant will be donating the proceeds from this week’s invasion of privacy lawsuit judgement to the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation, her lawyer announced in a statement. https://t.co/AWhW7C0wKt pic.twitter.com/mM1vnYsMYY
— ABC News (@ABC) August 26, 2022
This case has not only shone a light on the malpractices of authorities, but it also gave justice to Bryant’s loved ones.
To support Vanessa Bryant and continue Kobe and Gigi’s legacy, donate to the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation here.
Writer | Tweet me @Steph_Orell
