Michael McClaren and Shannon O’Neill Prevail on Motion for Summary Judgment in a § 1983 Lawsuit

Webster Szanyi attorneys Michael McClaren and Shannon O’Neill recently obtained a decision dismissing a § 1983 lawsuit brought against multiple police officers, sheriff, and county for claims of false arrest, false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, and Monell.  The firm filed a summary judgment arguing that probable cause was a complete defense for the claims.  The firm argued that there was ample probable cause for the arrest and subsequent confinement based on: a 911 call from a witness, dash camera footage, and observations made by an officer during the traffic stop.  After substantial briefing and oral argument, Magistrate Judge Roemer issued a report and recommendation that recommended the defendants’ motion for summary judgment be granted.  Despite plaintiff’s objections to the report and recommendation, the District Court Judge Sinatra ultimately agreed with the recommendation to grant the defendants’ summary judgment and issued a decision that the case be dismissed.