According to Florida law, words imputing commission of crime are defamatory per se:
When a statement charges a person with committing a crime, the statement is considered defamatory per se. Richard v. Gray, 62 So.2d 597, 598 (Fla.1953). Certain language in the letter, “your actions are criminal” or “we are forwarding a copy of your correspondence to the State Attorney by copy of this letter for investigation and prosecution for criminal extortion,” would permit the trier of fact to conclude the letter charged Mr. Shafran with a crime. Other language in the letter might also be considered defamatory per se.
See: Shafran v. Parrish- 787 So.2d 177
Related:
- Defamation Per Se: When Libel or Slander Is Egregious
- Defamation Cases Where Plaintiffs Were Victorious
- Defamation of Character Claims
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