Dominic Smithers
Alex Jones has conceded that the Sandy Hook shooting was '100 percent real'.
The controversial radio host is currently in the midst of a defamation trial to determine how much he must pay Neil Heslin and Scarlett Hook, whose six-year-old son was murdered during the massacre at the Connecticut school back in 2012.
Jones had previously claimed that the school shooting, which resulted in the death of 26 people, was a hoax.
However, the 48-year-old has now admitted that he was wrong to cast doubt on the heinous crime.
Advert
Speaking during the hearing in Austin, Texas, he said: "It was ... especially since I’ve met the parents. It’s 100 percent real."
Mr Heslin and Ms Lewis are seeking as much as $150 million from Jones and his company, Free Speech Systems LLC, with a pyschotherapist for the pair saying that the right-wing commentator’s comments had caused them overwhelming grief, setting their treatment back years.
In opening statements last week, lawyers for Heslin and Lewis said Jones led a 'vile campaign of defamation', arguing that he must pay the price.
Lawyer Mark Bankston claimed that about 75 million Americans believe the shooting was 'definitely or possibly staged'.
Advert
He claimed that $150m symbolises 'one dollar for every one of those people in emotional damage' and another $75 million for the damage to their 'reputation'.
"For 10 years, Mr. Jones has robbed Neil and Scarlett of the time they needed to heal over the violent death of their son Jesse, because Mr. Jones wanted to sell more of his products," he said.
Mr Heslin branded Jones a 'coward' for missing his testimony during the hearing this week.
He said: "What was said about me and Sandy Hook itself resonates around the world.
Advert
"As time went on I truly realised how dangerous it was… My life has been threatened. I fear for my life, I fear for my safety."
Adding: "Today is very important to me and it’s been a long time coming… to face Alex Jones for what he said and did to me. To restore the honour and legacy of my son."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677