Jury rejects lawsuit over reporting on Minnesota cop killing

A Minnesota jury has ruled against a man who sued two media organizations over news stories that named him as a suspect in the killing of a police officer.

Ryan Larson accused KARE-TV and the St. Cloud Times of defamation. Larson was arrested on suspicion of murder in the 2012 killing of a Cold Spring police officer, but was released without charges.

The 38-year-old Larson contended that KARE-TV and the Times went too far in publicizing some statements by authorities. The media outlets argued their reporting was protected because it was based on information provided by law enforcement.

KARE general manager John Remes welcomed the verdict, saying the case was about the public's right to know.

Larson's attorney, Stephen Fiebiger, says Larson is disappointed and is considering an appeal.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.