After attending and posting an article earlier today regarding the recent School Board meeting where once again supporters of John Freshwater spoke on his behalf, I read an online version of the Mount Vernon (Ohio) News article this morning that reported that on Sept. 2, Mr. Freshwater filed a countersuit, claiming defamation of character and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
I found that Kevin Maywood also wrote a news brief piece titled, "Teacher countersues over cross scar, creationism,” in the Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch item last Saturday that elaborated on the pending legal action:
“. . . John Freshwater has countersued the parents of the unnamed former student who sued him in June, claiming he violated their son's civil rights.
“Freshwater, 52, also is fighting for his job teaching eighth-grade science. He is currently on unpaid leave from the Mount Vernon City School District after an independent investigation concluded that he had taught creationism after being told not to do so.
“In his lawsuit, Freshwater says the allegations by the former student and his family are false and have exposed him to public ridicule and harmed his career. His attorney, R. Kelly Hamilton of Grove City, was not available for comment yesterday.
“The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court of Southern Ohio, seeks damages for defamation of character and emotional distress.”
I guess the best way to fight fire is with fire. I surely hope and pray Freshwater douses the flames of hatred which apparently motivated the original frivolous lawsuit. It is about time someone took a stand and fought back against those elements in society who work to silence the Christian influence, belief system and principles that once guided and lead this nation.
TAKE ACTION
You can also help Mr. Freshwater with his legal costs by sending a check to:
The Community Council for Free Expression
c/o Trinity Assembly of God
1051 Beech Street
Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050
