The recent federal case Z.P. et al. v. Bryant, pending in the Northern District of Alabama, is a powerful example of how victims of nonconsensual pornography—commonly referred to as “revenge porn”—can find justice through the civil court system. This case not only underscores the emotional and financial damage inflicted by the nonconsensual disclosure of intimate images, but also highlights how federal and state laws are evolving to provide meaningful remedies.
A Pattern of Exploitation
The facts in Z.P. v. Bryant are disturbing: Defendant Errol Gregory Bryant allegedly exploited multiple women by establishing intimate relationships, secretly recording explicit content, and then distributing that content without consent on platforms like OnlyFans, Reddit, and TezFiles. According to the amended complaint, Bryant profited from this conduct, even continuing the pattern after being confronted by the victims and investigated by law enforcement.
The Federal Civil Remedy
This case was one of the first in Alabama to proceed under 15 U.S.C. § 6851—the federal statute that provides a civil cause of action for victims of nonconsensual disclosure of intimate images. Under this law, victims can seek:
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Liquidated damages of up to $150,000 per image or video disclosed;
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Injunctive relief ordering removal of the content;
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Attorneys’ fees and costs.
In Z.P., the plaintiffs collectively sought well over $2 million in damages. Importantly, the court upheld the viability of their federal claim, signaling that the law has real teeth when enforced in federal court.
State Law Claims Upheld
The court also allowed most of the plaintiffs’ state law claims to proceed, including causes of action for:
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Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (Alabama’s “tort of outrage”),
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Invasion of Privacy,
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Unjust Enrichment (for defendants who profit off the content).
Although one claim under Alabama’s criminal code (Count Four) was dismissed because it did not create a private right of action, the court found the remaining state claims to be legally sound—even allowing one plaintiff to proceed despite statute of limitations objections, citing the “continuous tort” doctrine.
Why This Case Matters
For victims of revenge porn, Z.P. v. Bryant offers a roadmap to justice:
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It shows that you are not alone. Several victims came forward together, empowered by each other’s bravery and bolstered by social media support networks.
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It proves civil accountability is real. Even when local prosecutors declined to pursue charges, the victims were not without recourse.
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It demonstrates the growing power of 15 U.S.C. § 6851. Passed in 2022, this federal law is beginning to show its impact, offering standardized, predictable relief across jurisdictions.
How Our Firm Can Help
If you or someone you know is a victim of nonconsensual image sharing, we want you to know that you have rights. Our firm aggressively pursues justice for victims of revenge porn and digital abuse. We understand the legal strategies that work, and we handle cases with the confidentiality and compassion these deeply personal violations demand.
Contact us today to schedule a private consultation. You deserve a legal team that will stand up for your dignity, your privacy, and your future.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are experiencing an emergency or are in immediate danger, contact local authorities or a victim support hotline.
