Court Awards $30,000,000.00 in Revenge Porn Case: Finding Hope in Tragedy

Court Awards $30,000,000.00 in Revenge Porn Case: Finding Hope in Tragedy

In a significant victory for privacy rights and victims of non-consensual image sharing, the Honorable Kent R. Harrell, Chief Superior Court Judge of the Sixth Judicial District awarded $30,003,946.16 in damages to Plaintiff Daisy Colvin in her civil lawsuit against Defendant Spencer Weinland, a student at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW).

The Court found that Mr. Weinland unlawfully and intentionally disseminated private and intimate images of Ms. Colvin without her consent via the encrypted messaging application, Telegram. The ruling underscores the serious and lasting harm caused by the unauthorized sharing of sensitive content and the legal consequences that can follow such conduct.

Ms. Colvin was represented by The Law Group, founded by attorney Melissa Gott and based in Wilmington, North Carolina. We are encouraged to see the judiciary recognize the gravity of these violations and award damages that reflect the devastating impact they have on victims. This verdict sends a strong message that this type of behavior will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will be held accountable. We are hopeful the outcome of this case will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar misconduct.

The $30 million judgment is among the largest known awards in North Carolina for a privacy violation involving digital content and reflects a growing judicial recognition of the harms caused by digital exploitation and image-based abuse.

Ms. Colvin provided an interview to give her perspective.

What was your initial goal for bringing this lawsuit, and did that goal evolve over time?

Initially, my goal for bringing this lawsuit was awareness and accountability. I wanted to ensure that the harm I endured was recognized by a formal system. Moreover, I needed the consequences to shift onto the person responsible for inflicting them, because at that time, I was the only one shouldering the consequences of his actions.

As the case went on, my perspective began widening. I saw how my case could draw attention to the seriousness of image-based sexual abuse and the devastating impact it has on survivors. Too often, this kind of harm is dismissed as a privacy violation rather than sexual violence. I found that many people see it as a private matter rather than one that should be included in open discussions, which ultimately multiplies the harm. So, while I started this lawsuit to stand up for myself, over time it became about standing up for others too.

Did you ever want to give up? What motivated you to keep going?

Yes. There were times when the process felt overwhelming, retraumatizing, and isolating. As a victim, you’re dealing with the burden of what was done to you and trying to comprehend it. On top of that, you’re dealing with a new engrained fear, all while trying to shape it into something digestible enough to be understood by the legal world. It’s exhausting, and there were definitely times where I questioned whether it was worth continuing.

I was motivated to continue by the belief that giving up would allow him to evade responsibility, and I couldn’t accept that. I remember having to tell myself, “I cannot be the only one who faces consequences for his actions.” I felt as though giving up would facilitate more harm, as it would inadvertently condone his actions. I knew that he would most likely continue harming others if I gave up. My legal team was a large motivator for me as well because I knew I had their support and that they were fighting for me.

How does it feel to have the $30,003,946.16 verdict?

It's a feeling I struggle to describe, but if anything, it feels humanizing. In truth, it doesn’t feel like a “win,” but rather an acknowledgement of the immense harm that was done to me. My goal was never about money, but the number sends a powerful message that this kind of abuse will not be tolerated or dismissed. I think the judge recognized that with his decision; it serves as a warning to perpetrators and a reassurance to victims.

Do you feel a sense of vindication?

Yes. For a long time, I felt silenced and alone in carrying the weight of what was done to me. This verdict affirmed that the harm I experienced was significant. That sense of recognition through a verdict is incredibly important for healing.

How important was your legal team in helping you navigate this journey?

My legal team was absolutely essential. Beyond their skill and expertise, they believed in me, supported me, and guided me through every step of the way. I could not have navigated this journey without them, and I’m deeply grateful for their advocacy and commitment.

What advice would you give someone who is just starting a similar legal battle?

Be prepared for challenges. It can be a draining process, but know that it’s worth it. It’s crucial to understand just how much these crimes thrive in silence and shame. Never stop advocating for yourself, never stop pushing for results, and don’t let your fear paralyze you. Utilize your resources and remember to lean into your support system, both legally and personally. Most importantly, always remember that you have the right to fight for yourself, even when the odds feel stacked against you.

With the lawsuit now behind you, what do you see for your future?

In the midst of this lawsuit, I graduated with my BA in criminology, where I focused my studies on sexual victimization. Of course, this focus became even more personal given what I was experiencing. I plan to continue this path by attending law school.

My goal is to become an attorney who primarily represents victims of intimate partner violence and sexual violence. Survivors often encounter overwhelming barriers when seeking justice, and I know firsthand how intimidating that process can be. I want to stand with them in those moments, not only as their legal advocate, but as someone who truly understands what’s at stake.

At the same time, my commitment extends beyond the courtroom. Policy reform and systemic change are critical, and I want to use my voice to close policy gaps, expand protections for survivors, and ensure real accountability for perpetrators.

What advice would you give to others regarding online privacy and safety concerns?

While it’s always important to use strong privacy settings and be intentional about what you share, the larger issue goes beyond individual precautions. The responsibility for abuse never lies with the person who is harmed; it lies with the person who chooses to exploit.

That’s why the conversation about online safety needs to shift. Too often, we frame it as “how can potential victims protect themselves,” when the real question should be “why do some people feel entitled to exploit others in the first place?” Lasting change won’t come from placing the burden on individuals to avoid harm; it will come from challenging the attitudes and behaviors that enable exploitation, and ensuring accountability for those who cause it.

If you are a victim, seek help from community resources, law enforcement and caring attorneys.  Like Ms. Colvin, you can turn tragedy into a mission to help others. 

See Lawyers Weekly: https://nclawyersweekly.com/2025/10/21/30-million-verdict-award-punishes-defendant-who-shared-intimate-images/

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