Candace Owens sued by Charlie Kirk’s ex security chief Brian Harpole over defamation claims

WASHINGTON, DC: The former security chief of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk has filed a lawsuit against political commentator Candace Owens, accusing her of spreading defamatory conspiracy theories linking him to Kirk’s killing.

Harpole called the allegations “a completely and obviously fabricated story,” rejecting claims that he played any role in the incident or any related conspiracy narrative.

Candace Owens sued by Charlie Kirk ex security chief Brian Harpole over defamation claims

Brian Harpole, who previously served as security chief for Charlie Kirk, filed the lawsuit in Tennessee federal court on April 30. He accused Owens of defamation over statements suggesting he was involved in Kirk’s assassination.

Harpole was present at the Utah college campus where Kirk was shot and killed in September 2025 during an appearance on his American Comeback Tour.

According to the filing, Owens initially criticized Harpole for allegedly failing to provide adequate security on the day of the shooting before later advancing broader conspiracy claims that directly implicated him in the killing.

Harpole names Mitch Snow as co defendant in Candace Owens defamation lawsuit

The lawsuit also names Mitch Snow as a co-defendant, citing interviews featured in Owens’ content.

Snow alleged that Harpole attended a classified meeting with senior government officials at Fort Huachuca a day before Kirk’s death, suggesting it was connected to planning the attack.

Harpole denied the claim, stating he was in Dallas, Texas at the time and that travel records support his location. He also said Owens’ material provides no evidence of any government conspiracy or his involvement in such allegations.

Harpole has sought at least $75,000 in damages, arguing that the defamation has led to widespread harassment and reputational harm.

Candace Owens calls Harpole lawsuit a 'big pr move' amid defamation dispute

In a podcast episode following the filing, Candace Owens rejected Harpole’s claims and described the lawsuit as “one big PR move.”

Owens also challenged his claim of being a private figure, arguing that his appearance on ‘The Shawn Ryan Show’ placed him in the public spotlight.

Harpole’s suit states he appeared on the podcast only to respond to prior allegations. Owens said she had attempted to verify claims regarding the Fort Huachuca meeting, but did not receive a response from Harpole.