Bristol Police Officer Files Defamation Lawsuit Over Viral Casino Incident
Background of the Incident at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
A defamation lawsuit has been filed by a Bristol police officer following a confrontation at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, Virginia. The officer seeks $200,000 in damages after a casino visitor posted several TikTok videos alleging assault during her removal from a casino lounge.
The Incident: A Misunderstanding Escalates
On September 6, Stephanie Bates and her husband were guests at the Hard Rock Hotel, spending time in one of the casino lounges. Officer Lilly-Kay Tomlinson, who was working off-duty security at the time, was informed by casino staff about a possible unauthorized entry into the lounge. Bates was initially mistaken as a trespasser, prompting security and police to approach her table.
After confirming that Bates had not broken any access rules, the situation escalated when Bates and her husband allegedly engaged in a heated argument, using profanity toward Officer Tomlinson and another officer. They were warned that continued disruptive behavior might lead to an orderly conduct violation charge.
When Bates reportedly refused to lower her voice, Officer Tomlinson tried to escort her off the premises. Bates allegedly resisted by pulling her arm away and shouting. Consequently, she was formally removed from the casino. The couple was allowed to collect their belongings from their hotel room before being escorted off the property.
Social Media Reaction and Allegations
The incident rapidly attracted attention on social media platforms. Bates uploaded multiple TikTok videos recounting the event, accusing Officer Tomlinson of violently grabbing her arm and causing injury. In some of these videos, Bates was seen wearing a sling and showing swelling on her wrist. She also expressed these claims during local media interviews.
Dispute and Evidence Presented by Law Enforcement
Officer Tomlinson denies the allegations, citing medical records that show no signs of fracture or dislocation. On September 8, the police department released body camera footage capturing the tense interaction inside the casino. The video shows the officers approaching the couple, with Tomlinson holding Bates’s arm as she turns away.
Chief Byron Ashbrook emphasized the transparency of the release, stating that the body camera was activated as soon as contact was made with Bates.
Legal Action and Next Steps
The lawsuit claims that Bates’s social media posts crossed the line from opinion to defamation, accusing Officer Tomlinson of violence, dishonesty, and unfitness for duty. The legal complaint includes three counts of defamation and seeks compensatory and punitive damages, along with attorney fees. A jury trial has been requested, which will lead to a detailed examination of the case in court.
