Idaho man sued for speaking out in public hearing

Gary Godwa, a retired conservation officer and commander of Search and Rescue, expresses his strong belief in the right to speak out. He shares his deep connection to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area in Central Idaho, where he has dedicated his life.

Gary was sued for defamation after voicing concerns about Michael Boren's application for a permit to designate part of his ranch as an airstrip in the Sawtooth Valley. Many residents, including Gary, opposed the permit, leading to public hearings.

Gary and his wife wrote a comment letter opposing the airstrip. As a 38-year veteran of search and rescue, he stated there was no need for an additional airstrip, given two others nearby, and expressed concerns about potential harm to the Sawtooth Valley and National Recreation Area. He exercised his First Amendment rights by speaking at a public hearing.

Despite the county approving Mr. Boren's permit, Gary and over 20 other residents were sued for their comments. This lawsuit is seen as a threat to core First Amendment rights, impacting not only Gary but also future free speech on matters of public concern.

Gary, a 76-year-old reliant on a small retirement and Social Security, describes sleepless nights due to the lawsuit. FIRE is now representing him before the Idaho Supreme Court to protect his freedom of expression and the right of all Idaho citizens to speak out without fear of defamation for different opinions.