David Sabatini Wins $6 Million Defamation Verdict in Massachusetts

A Massachusetts jury awarded former Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor David Sabatini $6 million in damages on Friday, October 16, 2026, after finding that fellow scientist Kristin Knouse had defamed him and interfered with his ability to earn a living. The verdict concluded a closely watched civil trial stemming from sexual misconduct allegations that derailed Sabatini’s career. (snip) According to The Boston Globe and The New York Times, Sabatini maintained that the relationship, which began in 2018, was consensual. Knouse alleged that he used his professional influence to coerce her and fostered a sexually charged workplace. The jury found that Knouse had defamed Sabatini and harmed his professional prospects.