Kim Kardashian’s attorney, Michael Rhodes, addressed a new libel and slander lawsuit filed against the reality star, stating that it was a simple mistake to use a public photo of another man with the same name to promote Kardashian’s commitment to criminal justice reform. The image was taken down immediately once the error was discovered, and they prefer to resolve the issue without litigation but will defend Kim as needed. Ivan A. Cantu filed the lawsuit against Kardashian, claiming that she used his photo in a social media post about a death row inmate with the same name.
Kardashian has been an advocate for criminal justice reform since she began studying to be a lawyer in 2020. She wrote about Ivan “Abner” Cantu’s case in a Facebook post in January 2024, stating that she was moved by the case. Ivan Cantu was convicted in 2001 of killing his cousin and his fiancée, but he maintains his innocence, alleging that a rival drug dealer framed him. Kardashian highlighted false testimony by the state’s witnesses who later recanted and evidence withheld by the prosecution, leading to support for Ivan’s appeals from jurors who believe they did not hear all the evidence at trial.
Even though Ivan Cantu’s execution was previously canceled due to an appeal about false testimony and new evidence, it was later rescheduled, with a date set for February 28, 2024. Kardashian urged her social media followers to write to the local conviction integrity unit in Texas to request a stay of execution for Cantu. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness about potential mistakes in convictions and encouraged people to write to the integrity units about specific cases, including Ivan Cantu’s case, to help prevent wrongful convictions.
The attorney for Kim Kardashian indicated that the public photo mix-up involving Ivan Cantu was unintentional and has expressed a desire to resolve the matter without litigation. Cantu’s lawsuit against Kardashian alleges libel and slander due to the unauthorized use of his image in a social media post about a death row inmate. Despite the legal issues, Kardashian’s commitment to criminal justice reform remains steadfast, as evidenced by her efforts to advocate for individuals like Ivan Cantu who may have been wrongfully convicted.
Kardashian’s involvement in Ivan Cantu’s case has brought attention to the complexities of the criminal justice system and the potential for wrongful convictions. By sharing Cantu’s story on social media and urging her followers to take action, Kardashian has raised awareness about the flaws in the legal system and the importance of seeking justice for those who may have been unjustly imprisoned. Through her advocacy efforts and dedication to the cause, Kardashian continues to make a positive impact in the fight for criminal justice reform.
The lawsuit against Kim Kardashian serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals advocating for social justice causes. Despite the legal hurdles, Kardashian’s commitment to supporting those in need of justice reform remains unwavering. By addressing the lawsuit and reaffirming her dedication to the cause, Kardashian demonstrates her willingness to defend herself while also prioritizing the larger goal of seeking justice for those impacted by wrongful convictions. Through her actions and advocacy work, Kardashian continues to use her platform to bring attention to important social issues and advocate for positive change within the criminal justice system.
