Former Surfside Beach mayor sues resident for ‘defamatory’ comments made on social media
A former Surfside Beach mayor says he was the victim of cyber bullying that tarnished his reputation and ultimately prevented him and others from running for office.
Former Mayor Bob Childs, who chose not to seek re-election in November, filed a lawsuit against resident Al Kelley in Horry County last month, claiming “defamatory” comments made by Kelley on social media has stopped himself, along with “good and qualified” candidates from seeking office due to a “barrage of libelous and slanderous conduct and cyber bullying.”
Kelley knowingly published false and malicious statements on social media accusing Childs of engaging in professional misconduct and illegal activity while in his elected position, according to the lawsuit. Kelley further alleged that Childs received compensation after conducting town business, the suit states.
In November, 2018, Kelley used social media to accuse Childs of taking cash payments to facilitate approval of requested permits from the town, the lawsuit states, adding that another post was published last March alleging Childs would receive compensation after awarding a facade grant to a Surfside Beach business.
The suit stated that the allegations were both defamatory and written with actual malice. As a result, Child’s reputation was hurt.
Additionally, the suit claims Kelley “falsely and with malice” told similar “untruths” about Childs to Surfside residents.
Childs claims he is the victim of libel and will suffer irreparable harm, damage and injury until the posts are removed from Facebook and all other social media platforms and a retraction is issued.
The suit asks for an unspecified amount of money. The suit further requests the court grant a preliminary injunction compelling Kelley to remove his comments from social media, publish a retraction and refrain from making anymore slanderous remarks about Childs.
Kelley didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
This story was originally published February 14, 2020 at 6:44 PM.
