Byers v. Edmondson

826 So. 2d 551 (2002)

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Byers v. Edmondson

Louisiana Court of Appeal
826 So. 2d 551 (2002)

Facts

Patsy Byers (plaintiff) was a convenience-store clerk who was shot by Sarah Edmondson (defendant) during an armed robbery executed by Edmondson and her boyfriend. Edmondson told police that she and her boyfriend watched the film Natural Born Killers several times before committing the armed robbery. Edmondson stated that the film inspired them to bring a gun on the trip during which the armed robbery was eventually committed. Byers filed suit against Edmondson, Edmondson’s boyfriend, and the companies responsible for the production and distribution of Natural Born Killers (the film companies) (defendants). Byers alleged that the film inspired Edmondson to commit the crime that led to her injuries and that the film companies should be liable. The film companies moved for summary judgment seeking dismissal of the case. The trial court granted summary judgment. Byers appealed, alleging that Natural Born Killers was not entitled to First Amendment protection because it was inciteful and obscene.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Carter, C.J.)

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