‘Woke’ Crusader Given Slap on the Wrist After Courtroom Outburst and Shoving Incident in Defamation Lawsuit
New York, NY – In a highly unconventional courtroom drama, Anne Marie Bompart, known as a “woke” crusader who has been embroiled in a $40 million defamation lawsuit, received only a slap on the wrist after storming into court nearly two hours late and shoving one of the individuals suing her.
The incident occurred at a hearing related to the allegations from two West Village lesbian bars, Henrietta Hudson and Cubbyhole.
The judge, rather than ordering jail time, appeared more concerned with understanding the reasons behind Bompart’s behavior, despite her repeated violations of court orders. This courtroom episode highlights tensions surrounding the ongoing legal battle and the complex personality of Bompart, who has sent over 70 emails violating a no-contact order.
A Contentious Court Appearance
The hearing on Wednesday was marked by a significant delay: Anne Marie Bompart arrived over an hour and a half late, generating uncertainty about her intent to appear. Her own lawyer had reportedly not heard from her for weeks, even seeking to be released from representation as noted in court filings. Judge James d’Auguste decided to begin without her, stressing that the court was focused less on punishment and more on understanding the root causes of her actions.
Bompart eventually entered the courtroom with her mother and three court officers. Upon re-entering the hearing room, she physically confronted Vic Smith, manager of Cubbyhole and one of her legal adversaries, by grabbing him on the shoulder, despite an existing criminal order of protection against her.
Smith’s reaction, loudly telling her “Do not touch me,” was witnessed by court officers, the judge, Bompart’s mother, and supporters of the bars.
- Victim Vic Smith had a criminal order of protection in place for most of the past year.
- Smith filed a new criminal harassment complaint after receiving numerous emails from Bompart.
- Bompart has violated court orders prohibiting contact on at least 70 occasions.
Judicial Response and Psychological Evaluation
Despite the aggressive courtroom behavior, Judge d’Auguste appeared lenient, thanking Bompart for her late arrival and explaining the hearing’s goal was to understand the motivations behind her actions. The judge described Bompart as a “highly intelligent individual” but acknowledged that her decisions were “not rational.”
The court indicated an intention to order an outpatient 730 psychiatric evaluation, meant to better assess Bompart’s mental state in light of her escalating conduct. However, no immediate punitive response was given for her shoving incident during the hearing.
“It’s something that could land you in jail, and so the question is, why? Because it’s not rational.” – Judge James d’Auguste
Opposing Counsel and Public Perception
The bars’ attorney, Tom Shanahan, criticized the court’s leniency and Bompart’s courtroom demeanor:
“She’s not fit to be in an outpatient setting. She’s not taking this seriously the way she just conducted herself in a court of law. This is coddling of a felon — I think she is a felon.”
It is important to note that Bompart has not been charged or convicted of any felony. Shanahan’s comments reflect frustration shared by supporters of the plaintiffs, given Bompart’s repeated breaches of court orders and ongoing harassment via emails.
Bompart’s Defiant Statements and Courtroom Behavior
When given the opportunity to speak, Bompart launched into a conspiratorial and manic rant, accusing Shanahan and the district attorney of conspiring to steal her phone. She lamented the personal consequences she has faced, including social isolation and public vilification.
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Her behavior during the hearing became theatrical as she made a heart symbol towards a photographer and then extended middle fingers, actions that underscored the challenges the court faces in managing the case.
“You see, this is the type of self control you’re not exhibiting. If you wouldn’t have sent the emails, you literally wouldn’t be here today.” – Judge James d’Auguste
What Lies Ahead for the Defamation Lawsuit?
This episode raises questions about the future of the case between Bompart and the West Village establishments. With Bompart’s erratic conduct and ongoing legal infractions, the court’s emphasis on psychological evaluation may signal a shift in handling this complex matter.
Key next steps likely include:
- Implementation of the outpatient 730 psychiatric assessment.
- Continued monitoring of Bompart’s compliance with court orders.
- Potential further legal actions stemming from harassment complaints.
For detailed coverage of this developing story, refer to the original report on the New York Post.
What do you think about this courtroom incident and the judge’s decision? Have you followed this unusual defamation lawsuit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!