Alexandria Lawmaker Sued For Defamation By Ex-Boyfriend

ALEXANDRIA (AP) — A state lawmaker from Alexandria is being sued for defamation by an ex-boyfriend whom she has accused of threatening and stalking her.

The lawsuit by McLeod County Republican Party chairman Eric Harpel claims his reputation was ruined by statements Rep. Mary Franson of Alexandria made in a court petition seeking a restraining order.

Harpel says Franson falsely accused him of stalking and threatening her and sending her lewd emails, text messages, photos and videos. The lawsuit also claims Franson illegally accessed and deleted Harpel's emails. Harpel is seeking more than $50,000 in damages.

Franson says in an email that she's optimistic that Harpel's complaint will be dismissed.