WPP's Sorrell 'horrified' at criminal claims in libel case |
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Thu, 15 Mar 2007 17:52
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LONDON (AFX) - WPP Group PLC chief executive Sir Martin Sorrell told the High Court in London today he was 'horrified' at claims he had 'mafia' connections and was some kind of ruthless criminal.In evidence to the court on the second day of his libel action, the 62-year-old founder and head of the global advertising group said allegations on internet blogs 'were as serious as they could possibly be, and the tone in which they were advanced was extremely vindictive'.The court is hearing the libel and invasion of privacy lawsuit which Sorrell and his Italian aide Daniela Weber launched against two former Italian business associates.A private email allegedly labelled him a 'mad dwarf', and images of both Sorrell and Daniela Weber appeared on a series of internet blogs.The action dates back to the dismissal of WPP's former head of operations in Italy, Marco Benatti, following allegations of financial irregularities at the unit early last year.He and his associate, Marco Tinelli, deny all the allegations.Sorrell told the court that he felt all aspects of his character were attacked.'It accused me of criminal fraud, deception and money laundering.Although 'completely untrue' the allegations were still highly damaging and he said 'I felt that it was plainly an attempt to cause maximum damage to my reputation'.Sorrell is claiming forensic evidence points to the two men and their company, and he is seeking damages and an injunction to prevent further publication.The hearing before Mr. Justice Eady sitting without a jury, expected to last three weeks, continues.newsdesk@thomson.comdm/ab/slmCOPYRIGHTCopyright AFX News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.The copying, republication or redistribution of AFX News Content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of AFX News.AFX News and AFX Financial News Logo are registered trademarks of AFX News Limited
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WPP's Sorrell suing former Italian head over 'mad dwarf' libel 