CLEARWATER — A veterinarian and animal hospital are suing a pet owner, claiming defamation in Facebook and Google Review posts.
Harvey L. Partridge also known as Harvey L. Partridge, DVM and 4th Street Animal Hospital, LLC doing business as Partridge Animal Hospital filed a complaint on May 16 in the 6th Judicial Circuit of Florida-Pinellas County against Rachael Nicole Reif, also known as Maria Asher, alleging that she wrote and posted numerous false and defamatory statements on public websites.
According to the complaint, the plaintiffs allege that between March 17, 2017 and May 1, 2018, Harvey L. Partridge and Partridge Animal Hospital were the subjects of defamatory statements and reviews on public Facebook pages and Google Reviews about their services and work ethics, which are patently false, resulting in damages to the reputation of the business and emotional distress.
The plaintiffs hold Rachael Nicole Reif, also known as Maria Asher, responsible because the defendant allegedly negligently acted with knowledge or reckless disregard as to the falsity of the statements posted.
The plaintiffs request a trial by jury and seek damages exceeding $15,000, excluding costs, interest, attorney's fees and such other relief the court may deem just and proper. They are represented by Barbara J. Prasse of Barbara J. Prasse, PA in Tampa.
6th Judicial Circuit of Florida - Pinellas County Case number 18CA3168 5/16