Bubba Jury Hears MJ's 'Whore' Complaints

Opening Statements In Schnitt Vs. Bubba "The Love Sponge" Clem

TAMPA, FL. -- Plaintiff Todd Schnitt's attorney Philip Campbell claims he not going to sue for Bubba "The Love Sponge" Clem's parodies when he said about MJ "He's got pubic hair on top of his head."

But he said calling Schnitt's wife "a whore" was not acceptable, nor accusing Schnitt of  "fixing" a national radio contest, or sending the "Bubba Army" to harass Schnitt and his family.

Campbell alleged that Clem claimed a Clear Channel radio contest was rigged, disparaging Schnitt's character, and said Clem's attacks against Schnitt went "on for years and years" and "hundreds of times." He said this suit is about "reputation," and what someone's reputation is worth.

Campbell said Clem initiated a radio war that Schnitt didn't want to take part in. He said Schnitt is "a tough guy" but Clem's actions were uncalled for, especially going after Schnitt's wife Michelle.

A female character, "Jabberjaw" for the MJ morning show, said Campbell, allegedly left the show and went on the Bubba radio show alleging that Schnitt was engaging in so called "payola."  It was claimed he played commercials for personal gain from the companies advertised.

(Photo: Plaintiff Attorney Phil Campbell speaking to jury, Plaintiff Schnitt on left, Defendant Clem on right)

Other ways Clem expressed "views" will be demonstrated in audio clips later in the trial. Campbell said Clem read emails from listeners including one that called Schnitt names and made threats about throwing him in the river.

Campbell says evidence will show the fan based "Bubba Army" had certain individuals who are "very aggressive" and were issued "calls to action" where Clem directed the "Army" to do harm to Schnitt, including vandalizing his home with eggs on a Mother's Day. A note was allegedly found with "Bubba Army" written on it.

Another alleged incident involved the "Bubba Army" confronting Schmitt at a movie theater and later throwing ice at him, shouting "Bubba Army, Bubba Army!" near a Tampa area restaurant. Obscene email was allegedly sent to Schnitt by the Bubba Army fans.

Clem's attorney Joseph Diaco, Jr. will make his opening statements to the jury defending his client next. Ironically, Schnitt's attorney Campbell was previously Clem's attorney in a previous court case. The jury consultant for plaintiff Schnitt was also employed by Clem in case previously.

Photo Credit: 13th Judicial Circuit/Fox 13 Tampa Bay