Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court May 28, 1985 (Appleby v. Daily Hampshire Gazette)

Hennessey, C.J.

In 1981 and 1982, Kenneth A. Appleby commenced approximately ninety-four separate actions, alleg

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ing that various newspapers, radio and television stations, and individuals had made false and defamatory statements about him. The statements concerned a criminal investigation which culminated in Appleby’s convictions for assault and battery, rape, and kidnapping.