STAFF REPORT
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FERRIS – A recent post on Facebook’s “Ferris News” stating Ellis County Press Publisher/Editor Charles Hatfield was the Chair of the Ferris Economic Development Corporation got a lot of attention countywide – even though it was not true.
The post also stated Hatfield was “doing business with Nicholas Petroff, who is stealing houses from people in the City of Ferris, Texas.”
Hatfield responded to the comments on Ferris News.
“The post is a lie. I am not nor ever have been president of the EDC, and haven’t even been on the board for nearly four years.
“I have no interest in stealing homes. The post violated federal law and social media policy.
“It is libelous and defamatory. I’m considering filing a defamation lawsuit against the person who posted the lie. I publish a very conservative and independent newspaper, and some people don’t like that.
“If they can intimidate or bribe me, they can control me. That’s never going to happen.”
Petroff, who remodeled Ferris City Hall and recently bought the Ellis County Press building on Central Street in Ferris responded to Hatfield, stating his attorney is filing a TRO this week.
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