Shah v. Lumiere et al, No. 1:2013cv02975 - Document 46 (S.D.N.Y. 2013)

Court Description: OPINION AND ORDER re: 27 MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint by Defendant Lester Levy, filed by Lester L. Levy. For the reasons stated above, Defendant's motion to dismiss Plaintiff's defamation claim based upon statements made prior t o May 1, 2012, is granted. Plaintiff's defamation claim for statements made after May 1, 2012, remain. Defendant's motion to dismiss Plaintiff's tortious interference with contract claim is denied. Defendant's motion to dismiss Plaintiff's claims for tortious interference with prospective business relations and for malicious prosecution is granted. (Signed by Judge Lorna G. Schofield on 12/3/2013) (ja) Modified on 12/4/2013 (ja).

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