Caddo Commissioner Chris Kracman Responds to Defamation Lawsuit Over TA Truck Stop Dispute

Commissioner claims suit is retaliation for opposing tax; denies calling business "a scam".

Caddo Parish Commissioner Chris Kracman is pushing back against a defamation lawsuit filed by the owners of the TA truck stop in the village of Hosston. The suit, filed by Merchant Rajan Khadka and Edgemont Holdings, alleges Kracman publicly defamed them by labeling their business a scam and accusing them of criminal activity. The claims are tied to remarks Kracman made during Caddo Commission meetings, in interviews, and on social media.

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Kracman denied crossing legal lines and said he never directly used the word “scam.” Instead, he insists he was simply asking questions on behalf of his constituents and relying on public records and statements from state officials.

The Core of the Dispute: A 2% Sales Tax
At the heart of the controversy is a proposed 2% sales tax to fund infrastructure improvements near the TA truck stop. Kracman's vocal opposition began early, despite support from Hosston’s  former Commissioner Todd Hopkins. He says his concern was for the town’s fewer than 300 residents.

“Can those citizens afford an additional 2% sales tax?” Kracman asked. “That’s the sort of thing that I lose sleep over.”

Defamation or Due Diligence?
The lawsuit references statements Kracman allegedly made linking one of the owners to labor force violations and questioning the legitimacy of operations at the truck stop. Kracman says his remarks were carefully worded, often prefaced with disclaimers like “it’s my understanding” or “allegedly.”

Legal Representation and Next Steps