On November 7, 2024, the defamation lawsuit filed by Jeff Leach against Katy Schwartz was dismissed for the second time by Judge Stephen Ables of the 394th District Court. The dismissal utilized the Texas Citizens Participation Act (TCPA), which is designed to protect the free speech rights of Texas citizens.
The legal battle stemmed from a personal dispute between Leach, owner of Basecamp Terlingua, and Schwartz, who is also recognized for her creative contributions to the community, including a mural at Alta Marfa Wine Bar. Leach had claimed that the dispute led to a loss of reputation and affected his business operations. However, the court upheld Schwartz’s protection under the TCPA, emphasizing the importance of free speech.
The case has attracted significant attention in the area, with Schwartz’s counter-suit against Leach still ongoing. Schwartz has been actively involved in local arts, notably creating the “Greetings from Marfa” mural, which adds to her profile in the community.
For more in-depth coverage of this case and its implications, visit the Big Bend Sentinel’s full report here.
