Sandy Hook families testify about threats, fear of deniers

WATERBURY, Conn. (AP) — Two parents of children killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre and the daughter of the school's slain principal testified Wednesday of the fear and pain they have suffered from being targeted with threats by those who believe the lie that the shooting was a hoax.

David Wheeler, Jennifer Hensel and Erica Lafferty are among those suing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones for promoting the Sandy Hook conspiracy theories on his media platforms, including his Infowars web show.

The plaintiffs, who gave often emotional testimony, say Jones’ promotion of Sandy Hook conspiracy theories on his show led the them being threatened by deniers of the shooting, including some who claimed their loved ones never existed. They say they’ve endured death threats and in-person harassment, video recording by strangers and abusive comments on social media. Some families moved to avoid harassment.

“There are days when grief is just so awful,” said Hensel, whose 6-year-old daughter Avielle Richman was among those slain. “Then you add on the idea that people think you made all this up for money or that your child didn't exist. That compounds everything.”

One of the jurors wept as Hensel testified and was comforted by another panel member.

Judge Barbara Bellis last year found Jones and Infowars’ parent company, Free Speech Systems, liable by default for failing to turn over documents in the case. The jury, seated in a courthouse about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from where the massacre occurred, is now hearing evidence to determine how much Jones should pay in damages.

Lafferty, who says she's moved five times since the shooting and avoids going out to grocery stores and other public places, testified she's endured death and rape threats from people telling her that her...