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Lawsuit against Groveport dropped
(by Rick Palsgrove, Southeast Editor - May 12, 2009)
Philip Riner has voluntarily dismissed his lawsuit against the village of Groveport, according to paperwork filed with the Franklin County Common Pleas Court on April 28.
No official reason was given for Riner's voluntary dismissal of the suit.
However, according to Riner's attorney, Scott Stitt of James E. Arnold & Associates, "Mr. Riner is able to pursue the suit at a later day if he wishes."
Riner, who owned and operated the now closed Groveport Lounge, had filed a lawsuit against the village earlier this year alleging defamation, invasion of privacy, and interference with business relationships and contracts stemming from actions village officials took in opposition to Riner seeking a liquor permit to operate the Groveport Lounge, once located at 296 Main St.
Through their attorney, village officials denied the allegations and were prepared to fight the lawsuit.
"While the village was surprised to learn Mr. Riner dismissed his lawsuit, it's pleased with the outcome," said the village's attorney Brian Zets of Wiles, Boyle, Burkholder & Bringardner Co., LPA. "I firmly believed his case lacked merit, but had no idea Mr. Riner would voluntarily dismiss it. The village intended to vigorously defend this action, and will again, if Mr. Riner re-files his complaint."
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