They should have consulted their lawyer before making that "press release," as they call it. Perhaps she could have explained to them the difference between libel and slander.
Yes, the name to which I've referred is the pseudonym Jessica though her real name is not a matter of record, though powers-that-be consider discussion of her on this forum now to be a witch hunt and off-topic.
This is probably just Tess on her own thinking she's being proactive and in charge of corporate image.
Someone should tell her that accusing someone of extortion without proof is likewise libelous.