Philanthropists and Entrepreneurs David and Leila Centner File $885M Defamation Lawsuit Against The Miami Herald
MIAMI, Sept. 16, 2025 -- Philanthropists and entrepreneurs David and Leila Centner have filed a defamation lawsuit in Miami-Dade Circuit Court against the Miami Herald and several of its reporters. They assert that the Miami Herald intentionally misrepresented public records about their proposed $10M donation to build a sports dome for the City of Miami and its residents and visitors. The Centners alleged that the Miami Herald falsely accused them of bribery and corruption, even though no charges were ever brought against the couple nor were they ever accused of wrongdoing. When prosecutors ultimately dismissed charges against others, the Miami Herald allegedly continued to propagate false claims.
The Centners allege that a persistent campaign of false reporting has gravely damaged their reputations, compromised their business and charitable efforts, and caused lasting harm.
Relief Sought
The Centners are demanding at least $885 million in damages and have pledged to donate 25% of any award to charitable causes. Damages claimed are believed to be one of the largest in U.S. history.
Representation by Meier Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP
The Centners are represented by Megan Meier, Rod Smolla, and Shannon Timmann of Meier Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP.
Before founding Meier Watkins, Ms. Meier and Mr. Smolla represented Dominion Voting Systems in its landmark defamation case against Fox News, resulting in a $787.5 million settlement—the largest publicly known defamation settlement in U.S. history. Mr. Smolla is a renowned First Amendment scholar and the author of the leading treatise on defamation.
MWPP is one of only two firms in the United States to be ranked by Chambers and Partners as Band 1 Firm for both High Net Worth Defamation and First Amendment Litigation: Mainly Plaintiff.
Statement from the Centners
"For years, we have dedicated our time and resources to improving communities in Miami and beyond. We take no joy in suing the Miami Herald, the newspaper of my youth," said Miami-native David Centner. "But the Miami Herald's repeated false reporting has damaged our reputation, diverted resources, and undermined our ability to serve. We will not allow this brazen and malicious takedown attempt to stand."
"This lawsuit is not just about us—it's about the little guys who don't have the resources to stand up to media bullies," said Leila Centner. "We bring this suit to defend the truth, our legacy, and our promise to the public."
About the Centners
David and Leila Centner are Miami-based philanthropists and entrepreneurs. Together, they have donated millions of dollars to charitable causes in Miami and worldwide, with a focus on supporting underserved women and children through sustainable programs in education, housing, and vocational training. Their business and philanthropic ventures are united by a mission to strengthen communities and improve lives. Today, the Centners sit atop a highly diversified portfolio of operating entities spanning education, hospitality, technology, health and wellness, fitness, and retreats.
You can find the filed complaint here.
SOURCE Meier Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP