Lonergan v. Love

-Action for slander. Verdict for plaintiff for $100 actual damages and for $300 punitive damages. Defendant appeals. The amended petition charged that on the 24th day of February, 1939, in Pike County, Missouri, the defendant, willfully, wantonly and maliciously spoke to plaintiff, and of and concerning plaintiff in the presence and hearing of others, certain false, defamatory and slanderous words, as follows: “You stole my corn. You are a thief and a damn thief.” Plaintiff prayed for $1000 actual damages and $1000 punitive damages.

The amended answer: (a) General denial; (b) Admitted…