Judge Blocks Defense from Introducing Abuse Claims in Social Media Trial

A judge in a Los Angeles trial involving social media has denied Mehta’s defense the opportunity to present documents claiming that a plaintiff experienced “sexual abuse as a child.”

This took place after psychiatrist Dr. Kara Baggott, a witness for the jury and the plaintiffs, was excused for the day. Attorney Paul Schmidt for Mehta approached Judge Carolyn Kuhl to inquire about which exhibits could be introduced.

The document in question is a housing application completed by a 20-year-old woman referred to in court as Caylee GM. She submitted it after being evicted by her mother. In the application, when asked about any “traumatic situations or events” in her life, she indicated experiencing “exposure to neglect, mental, physical, and sexual abuse during childhood.”

Mehta’s Lawyer Highlights Lack of Mention of Social Media Addiction

Schmidt pointed out to the judge that, despite the claims made in the application completed in May 2024—well after the lawsuit was filed—Caylee did not note “social media addiction” as one of her traumas.

He suggested that the term “sexual abuse” should be removed from the documents, asserting it wasn’t mentioned in extensive medical records from over 200 cases and wasn’t brought up during the trial. He stated that other traumas, such as neglect and mental or physical abuse, had been supported by prior testimonies.

Judge Kuhl, reviewing the application, expressed skepticism, suggesting Caylee might be lying about her experiences. She remarked, “It looks like she’s lying here,” questioning the authenticity of Caylee’s claims of sexual abuse, which were not previously discussed in court. It’s worth noting that while autism is mentioned in her records, she has never been officially diagnosed with it.

Debate Over Allegations of Abuse

When pressed by Judge Kuhl about evidence of sexual abuse, Schmidt admitted he couldn’t pinpoint where Caylee might have obtained such claims, as they were not elaborated on in her previous depositions.

Judge Kuhl made a remark suggesting that Caylee’s document exaggerated her experiences, indicating she was attempting to present herself as an abused child seeking help.

However, Schmidt disagreed, asserting that Caylee was merely referencing trauma she had previously shared.

Trial Progress and Time Management Challenges

During the proceedings, the issue of time management was raised. Attorney Mark Lanier, representing the plaintiffs, still had over five hours left, while the defense, including Meta and Google, had about 11 hours remaining.

Judge Kuhl mentioned that the court’s structure allowed for 40 hours of total presentation time for both sides. There were concerns that if one party runs out of time for cross-examination, it could lead to an appeal, something she cautioned against.

As the trial continues, there’s anticipation around further witness testimonies, including that of whistleblower Arturo Bejar from Meta. The repetitive presence of Dr. Baggott in court has also raised eyebrows, with both the judge and attorneys acknowledging the unusual situation.

Ultimately, Judge Kuhl expressed hope that both sides would effectively manage their time. “Don’t worry. Don’t fight about it. You’re all close. You’ll make it,” she reassured the attorneys.