Judge: Papa John's Founder Entitled to Records

A Delaware judge has ruled that the embattled founder of the Papa John's pizza chain is entitled to corporate records that the company has refused to turn over to him.

John Schnatter sued Papa John's International Inc. last year, claiming he needs the records to inform himself in order to fulfill his corporate duties, and to ensure that other directors are doing the same.

The company argued that Schnatter, who was pressured to resign as chairman in July, wanted the records to further his own self-interests.

The two sides eventually resolved disputes over 13 of 17 categories of documents.

The judge ruled Tuesday that the company failed to prove that Schnatter's purpose for seeking to inspect the remaining four categories of documents was improper.