Alaska News

Judge formally tosses Juneau man's lawsuit against Palin

JUNEAU -- A federal judge has formally dismissed an activist's lawsuit against former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Last week, U.S. District Judge Timothy Burgess struck down claims brought by activist Chip Thoma, who alleged that Palin acted to silence him for complaining about traffic around the governor's mansion in 2009.

Thoma had sought at least $100,000 in the case. But Burgess said Thoma did not provide the necessary evidence to support his claims.

In a judgment filed Tuesday, Burgess dismissed the case, saying Thoma will recover nothing and Palin will recover costs from Thoma.

It wasn't immediately clear what those costs would total. A private attorney and an attorney for the state were involved in the case on Palin's behalf.

By BECKY BOHRER

Associated Press

Becky Bohrer, Associated Press

Becky Bohrer is a reporter for the Associated Press based in Juneau.

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