In an era dominated by digital media, the line between credible journalism and unchecked online commentary has become increasingly blurred. For decades, traditional newspapers and their editors served as gatekeepers of truth, earning the trust of their readers. However, the rise of internet publications has ushered in an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, often without accountability. This new landscape allows individuals, even those with questionable backgrounds, to disseminate narratives, regardless of their veracity. One such individual who has drawn scrutiny for his online activities is Donald Watkins, a convicted criminal and former lawyer who continues to blog from federal prison.
Donald Watkins is not an unfamiliar name in Alabama legal and business circles. Born into privilege as the son of Levi Watkins, former president of Alabama State University, Watkins initially projected an image of wealth and success as a high-rolling investor and attorney. However, this facade crumbled when court documents revealed a pattern of deceit and financial manipulation. Watkins was ultimately convicted of defrauding friends, celebrities, and even a federally insured bank, accumulating over $15 million in illicit gains. In 2019, his deceptive schemes caught up with him, leading to a federal court sentencing both Donald Watkins and his son, Donald Watkins Jr., to prison.
The intricate web of fraud perpetrated by Donald Watkins centered on false representations regarding an energy company named Masada. Watkins falsely claimed to be a majority shareholder in Masada, enticing investors with promises of lucrative returns. He further embellished his claims by falsely associating prominent figures like former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Martin Luther King III with the company. Both Rice and King III testified that they had no affiliation with Masada, exposing Watkins’ elaborate fabrication.
While many may not recognize the name Donald Watkins, some might recall his involvement in a controversial case involving the Auburn University football program. As a lawyer, Watkins played a role in representing Eric Ramsey, whose allegations of improper benefits led to NCAA probation for the university. Beyond this case, Watkins also built a career defending high-profile clients, a path that ironically mirrors his own eventual entanglement with the criminal justice system.
Perhaps one of the most notable victims of Donald Watkins’ fraudulent schemes is basketball legend Charles Barkley. Barkley reportedly lost over $6 million to Watkins’ deceptive investment ploys. Court records detail how Watkins and his son diverted investor funds to sustain lavish lifestyles, including paying back taxes, alimony, expenses for Watkins’ girlfriend, and even the upkeep of his private jet. The evidence of extravagant spending fueled by misappropriated funds undoubtedly contributed to the jury’s swift guilty verdict on ten counts against Watkins.
Despite his conviction and imprisonment, Donald Watkins has not ceased his controversial activities. From his prison cell, Watkins has continued to utilize the internet to launch attacks against those he believes have wronged him. He consistently portrays himself as the victim of a grand conspiracy, rather than acknowledging his role as the perpetrator of fraud and defamation. Watkins’ targets include a wide array of individuals and institutions, ranging from the Alabama Supreme Court and federal judges to federal prosecutors and leaders of major Alabama corporations. He has even gone so far as to accuse former Senator Richard Shelby of orchestrating his imprisonment through an unspecified scheme.
In 2017, businessman Joe Perkins took legal action against Watkins for defamation. The circuit court ruled in Perkins’ favor, awarding a $1.5 million judgment against Watkins. Watkins pursued appeals all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, but his efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. On February 27th, the Supreme Court declined to hear his appeal, effectively ending his legal challenges in this particular case.
The question arises: why have more of Donald Watkins’ victims not pursued legal action against him for his defamatory statements? The likely answer lies in the grim reality of Watkins’ financial situation. As the saying goes, “you can’t get blood from a turnip.” Watkins already owes his victims in excess of $15 million, and his current incarcerated status suggests limited financial resources. Further lawsuits may be seen as futile efforts to extract compensation from an already deeply indebted individual.
Freedom of speech, a cornerstone of American democracy, is intended to protect open discourse and the expression of diverse viewpoints. However, the case of Donald Watkins highlights the potential for this fundamental right to be exploited. When wielded by a proven liar and unrepentant criminal, freedom of speech can become a tool for inflicting further harm and spreading misinformation. From his prison cell, Donald Watkins continues to demonstrate the dark side of unchecked online expression, raising concerns about the limits of free speech and the need to address online defamation, even when perpetrated by those behind bars. His ongoing blogging activities underscore the challenges of balancing freedom of expression with the need to protect individuals and institutions from malicious and unfounded attacks. For many, Donald Watkins’ actions from prison are not just the ramblings of a disgraced lawyer, but a stark reminder of the potential for the internet to amplify harmful voices, even from within the confines of the penal system.
Steve Flowers, a veteran political columnist, has covered Alabama politics for over two decades.
