Funeral Home Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Museum

The Mayhews are seeking "enhanced damages" of the Fredericks' "unfounded criticisms"

A New Hampshire funeral home owner has sued the owners of a nearby motorcycle museum, saying their accusations about his crematorium have defamed him and his business.

The Citizen of Laconia reports Peter Mayhew of Mayhew Funeral Home in Meredith and his wife say Douglas and Leslyee Frederick slandered them by accusing them of "business conduct that is abhorrent to a civilized society."

The Fredericks own the American Police Motorcycle Museum next door and have repeatedly told public officials that emissions from the crematorium carry human ashes onto their property. Douglas Frederick also has complained about a bad smell and has asked state environmental officials to visit. A message was left seeking comment Tuesday.

The Mayhews are seeking "enhanced damages" of the Fredericks' "unfounded criticisms."

A hearing has been scheduled for Friday.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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