In a recent court ruling, a Texas bankruptcy judge rejected a proposed liquidation of Alex Jones’ company, Free Speech Systems, the parent company of Infowars. The judge, Chris Lopez, noted that a denial of the bankruptcy plan was in the best interest of the creditors. However, Judge Lopez did approve a separate liquidation of Jones’ personal assets.
The families of Sandy Hook victims, who are owed approximately $1.5 billion in damages after Jones lied about the 2012 school massacre, have not received payment. Judge Lopez emphasized the need to stop “incurring costs” and allow the families to try to claim what they are owed through state courts.
The rejection of the bankruptcy plan raises questions about the future of Infowars and the legal avenues available for the victims’ families to collect the outstanding sum. The families’ attorney, Chris Mattei, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating that they intend to move immediately to collect against all Infowars assets.
It was noted that Infowars could still be sold by the court-appointed trustee to pay some of the damages owed to the families. However, it may not fetch a high price without Jones’ active promotion.
Jones, who fought against liquidating Infowars, vowed to move forward and maximize profits to support himself. His attorney, Vickie Driver, welcomed the decision and praised the judge’s fair review of the case. Despite the ruling, Jones will continue to spread conspiracy theories and lies online.
Meanwhile, Jones agreed to convert his personal bankruptcy into a Chapter 7 liquidation. This decision came after demands from the families of Sandy Hook victims. An interim trustee will oversee Jones’ estate, and proceeds from the sale of his assets, such as his ranch, will be sent to the trustee.
Infowars hosts speculated about the outlet’s future following the court ruling, with one host attempting to twist the decision as a way to gain a larger audience. The far-right outlet’s regular program was replaced with previously recorded interviews on the day of the decision.
Overall, the judge’s rulings suggest a complicated future for Jones, his company, and the families of Sandy Hook victims as they navigate the aftermath of the court’s decisions.
