John Schnatter sues for access to company’s books and records after resigning amid reports he used racial slur

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

The founder of Papa John’s pizza is suing for access to the company’s books and records after he resigned this month amid reports he used a racial slur during a media training session.

Papa John's founder says resigning over N-word use was a mistake Read more

In a complaint filed on Thursday, John Schnatter says he wants access to the documents because of the “unexplained and heavy-handed way” that Papa John’s International Inc has treated him.

The court filing comes as the company tries to distance itself from Schnatter, who resigned as chairman after Forbes published an 11 July article about the alleged slur use.

Schnatter says he has been falsely accusedand calls his resignation a mistake.

The company has adopted a “poison pill” plan to try to prevent Schnatter from amassing a controlling stake.

The company is based in Kentucky but incorporated in Delaware.