Judge Allows New York to Refile Internet Cigarette Case

New York City can file a revised racketeering lawsuit accusing Internet cigarette sellers of evading the city's steep taxes through computer sales to Big Apple smokers, a judge ruled. The decision is important because it marks the first time a federal judge has indicated that a racketeering action, which can seek treble damages, may proceed against Internet cigarette sellers, said Eric Proshansky, the city's chief lawyer on the case.