Rye Harbor Lobster Pound has filed a lawsuit alleging illegal actions by Pease leaders and Geno Marconi, claiming harm to their business.

The lawsuit is pretty intense, with 13 counts alleging a whole campaign of extortion and intimidation aimed at the lobster pound. The owners, Sylvia Cheever and her dad Nathan Hanscom, say Marconi and the others used their power to mess with their business.
Rye Harbor Lobster Pound has been around since 1996, and it’s a seasonal spot. They’ve had their fair share of ups and downs, but this lawsuit is a big deal. They’re saying they were hit with a 10% concession fee on sales, lost parking spaces, and even had their water line cut. Talk about a rough time!
Back in 2021, a petition with over 6,000 signatures helped them keep their season going. Now, they’re saying these actions are illegal and need a judge to step in. The lawsuit was filed on January 10 in Merrimack County Superior Court.
Cheever hasn’t commented yet, but her lawyer is ready to take this to court. They’re looking to prove their case and get some justice.
The drama doesn’t stop there. During the pandemic, the lobster pound saw a surge in customers thanks to takeout. But in 2021, Marconi tried to shut down their food sales, claiming they were too big for their space. Luckily, the former governor stepped in and gave them a waiver to keep selling.
Now, the lawsuit claims Marconi was just trying to protect his family’s restaurant, Geno’s Chowder & Sandwich Shop, from competition. They’re saying he made up reasons to restrict the lobster pound’s operations, which is pretty shady if you ask me.
The lawsuit also accuses the defendants of violating the lobster pound’s rights and causing emotional distress. They’re seeking a jury trial and damages for what they’ve been through.
Marconi’s been in hot water lately, too. He’s on paid leave and facing some serious charges for witness tampering and other stuff. The Attorney General’s Office is looking into this lawsuit while they handle his other case.
It’s a wild situation, and it looks like things are just heating up for Rye Harbor Lobster Pound. Let’s see how this all plays out in court!