FRESNO — A Fresno County man is suing a woman, alleging defamation and deliberate intent to destroy his character as a good father.
Tyson Laycook filed a complaint May 2 in Fresto County Superior Court against Julie Price, alleging she made false statements to gain temporary guardianship to the plaintiff's minor daughter.
According to the complaint, on Nov. 7, 2016, Laycook was subjected to numerous false statements regarding his character in order to be removed as the guardian of his 6-year-old daughter. Laycook says he was accused of using illegal street drugs, pretending to work for Medtox to alter drug test results and never had custody of his son because he was a bad father who cannot be trusted with children. As a result, Laycook said, he suffered loss to his reputation and shame.
The plaintiff alleges Price lied and made false statements regarding his character without any proof or evidence and presented such claims to gain temporary guardianship of the plaintiff's daughter.
Laycook seeks trial by jury, judgment for compensatory, punitive damages, costs of suit, and all other just and proper relief. He is representing himself.
Fresno County Superior Court case number 17CECG01472