Vernon-based TicketNetwork is suing the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts and its CEO in state court over allegedly slanderous comments made to a legislative committee.
The lawsuit is over statements that Bushnell President and CEO David Fay made to the General Law Committee in his testimony against legislation allowing the resale of tickets to entertainment events, such as sports games and concerts.
Fay made defamatory comments about TicketNetwork and its CEO, Donald Vaccaro, during his testimony, according to the lawsuit.
Fay, who made similar comments to the Journal-Inquirer in Manchester, said that TicketNetwork puts a hold on tickets so it can resell them at inflated prices, the lawsuit says.
TicketNetwork said it is an electronic marketplace where buyers and sellers can exchange tickets. The company makes its money off a percentage of each transaction, and does not buy, hold or set the resale price of tickets.
Vaccaro said he believes the Bushnell and its CEO should be held to a high standard of conduct and held accountable for the statement it makes.
The legislation was approved by committee and sent to the floor of the General Assembly. If enacted, it would allow for ticket holders to sell, trade or give away their tickets as they see fit; and it would bar venues such as the Bushnell from denying access to the holder of a resold ticket.
Fay testified against the legislation. Vaccaro favors it.
