Hasselbeck Accused of Plagiarism

A Cape Cod, Mass., author is accusing View co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck of plagiarism.

The author, Susan Hassett, filed suit in federal court in Massachusetts on Monday. Hasselbeck is said to have copied word-for-word information on celiac disease from Hassett’s book, “Living with Celiac Disease.” Hasselbeck’s book is titled “The G-Free Diet: A Gluten-Free Survival Guide.”

In a twist, Hassett says she sent Hasselbeck a copy of her book after the co-host revealed she suffers from the disease, an autoimmune disorder in which consumption of gluten causes the body’s immune system to attack and damage the small intestine.

Along with allegedly lifting text, the suit claims Hasselbeck’s book is also similarly organized and formatted.

In a statement, Hasselbeck’s publisher says the allegations are baseless and that Hasselbeck worked tirelessly and diligently on her book.

UPDATED: Today on The View, Hasselbeck told viewers "This week a claim was filed with regard to my book 'The G-Free Diet.' I assure you that the allegations are without merit, and are being handled appropriately."