Riley’s Defense: A Different Story
Riley, however, asserts that his relationship with McKenna was one of mutual warmth and mentorship, citing cordial text messages and emails. He claims to have treated multiple employees to gifts and dinners, dismissing McKenna’s accusations as distortions of benign workplace interactions.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of McKenna’s allegations is her claim of discovering hundreds of photos of herself on Riley’s iPad, which she says supports her stalking accusations. Riley, who is legally blind, countered that he keeps photos of colleagues and clients to help recognize them during mediations. He further accused McKenna of unlawfully accessing the device by coercing an assistant into providing the password, an act he argues constitutes trespass and invasion of privacy.
Legal Fallout: Multiple Claims, High Stakes
Riley’s counterclaims include:
- Defamation (common law and under Michigan law) for McKenna’s statements to clients and the press
- Tortious interference with business relationships
- Trespass to chattels and intrusion upon seclusion over the alleged unauthorized access to his iPad
Riley seeks actual and exemplary damages, emotional distress compensation, legal fees, and an injunction preventing McKenna from using any information obtained from his device.
Meanwhile, Olsman MacKenzie also filed an answer this week, denying McKenna’s allegations.
