Judge allows Paterson police union leaders’ retaliation lawsuit to proceed against city

A federal court found union officials plausibly alleged free speech violations tied to grievances.

Newark, NJ – A federal judge has denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by two Paterson police union leaders who claim city officials retaliated against them for filing labor grievances. The ruling allows the case to move forward, with the court finding the plaintiffs sufficiently alleged violations of their First Amendment rights.

The lawsuit was filed by Alex Cruz and Mason Maher III, both members of the Paterson Police Department who also serve as presidents of their resp...