Ohio attorney general confirms movie theater antitrust probe

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio’s attorney general is confirming that 10 states are investigating the country’s biggest movie theater chains for alleged antitrust violations.

Attorney General Mike DeWine says Ohio and the other states are examining whether AMC, Cinemark and Regal have taken action to keep competitors and new theaters out of the market.

DeWine spokesman Dan Tierney said today the investigation looks at whether the chains have tried to thwart independent movie theaters and nonprofit film centers among others.

Word of the investigation emerged recently in public filings by the companies about investigative demands from the Ohio attorney general.

DeWine says all businesses should have a fair chance to compete.

Messages seeking comment were left with AMC, Cinemark and Regal.