The judgment caps a dispute between Megladon Inc. and the Village of Pinecrest that has been winding through federal court since 2021. While the specific nature of the underlying dispute was not detailed in the final judgment order, the case involved multiple claims under what appears to be Section 1983 civil rights litigation, given the reference to attorney's fees under 42 U.S.C. ยง 1988.
Judge Altman's ruling followed a jury verdict rendered March 11 that found mixed results for both parties. 'Final judgment is ENTERED in favor of the Plaintiff' on two counts of Megladon's second amended complaint, Altman wrote, while ruling for the village on a separate count. The judge noted his decision incorporated prior rulings, including a May 2025 partial summary judgment order.
The case has a complex procedural history spanning nearly five years, with Judge Altman previously issuing partial summary judgment in May 2025 and a paperless order in June 2025. The final judgment denied Megladon's post-trial motion for judgment as moot, given the favorable jury verdict and damage award.
With the case now closed, Megladon may still pursue attorney's fees and costs under the federal civil rights statute, which allows prevailing parties to recover legal expenses. A motion for order to show cause remains pending, suggesting potential enforcement or contempt issues may still need resolution.