Most of $5 million lawsuit against Scottsdale overturned
The Arizona Court of Appeals overturned most of a $5.25 million lawsuit against Scottsdale, but upheld a $1.5 million wrongful termination verdict.Summary
The city of Scottsdale achieved a partial victory in a lawsuit filed by former city prosecutor Shawn Fuller, who initially won a $5.25 million judgment. The Arizona Court of Appeals overturned the majority of the award, specifically the $3.5 million in pain and suffering and $350,000 for reputational harm related to defamation claims. However, the court upheld the approximately $1.5 million verdict for wrongful termination.
The lawsuit stemmed from Fuller’s firing in February 2020, which he alleged was retaliation for investigating potential misdeeds by his predecessor regarding mishandled DUI cases. Fuller claimed that potentially exculpatory lab reports showing defendants were sober were not disclosed. The city countered that Fuller was fired due to concerns about his behavior and alleged bullying of subordinates.
While the appeals court criticized Fuller for not specifically identifying defamatory statements earlier in the case, his attorney intends to appeal to the Arizona Supreme Court. Scottsdale City Council is also considering further legal action, indicating the case remains ongoing despite the appeals court ruling.
(Source：East Valley Tribune)