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Nazareth, Pa., United States

Friday, June 15, 2012

Gold & Silver Bidders Lose Libel Claim Against NocCo Officials

Victor Balletta, Michael Reis and Michael Proetto showed up at a Northampton County Sheriff's Sale in 2008 with bulging sandwich bags full of silver and gold. Their bids were ignored by Deputy Sheriff Dave Ruberry and Assistant County Solicitor Chris Spadoni.

Ruberry told The Morning Call this trio were "anarchists," "paper terrorists," and possible members of the Sovereign Citizens movement. A little more conciliatory, Spadoni called them "opportunists."

Both Ruberry and Spadoni were sued for defamation.

Yesterday, a three-judge panel of the Commonwealth Court dismissed their lawsuit. The Opinion was penned by Judge Robert "Robin" Simposn, a former Northampton County judge.

Judge Simpson ruled that Ruberry and Spadoni, as County officials being sued in their official capacity, are immune. But he also adds that, as a matter of law, there was no defamation.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

I sought out Mr. Spadoni last year about a property in the county with a back tax issue.
He told me to communicate in writing.
Ok. He's a busy guy.
No problem.
I posted the letter the next day from the Easton PO.
After two weeks with no reply, I again sent the letter with a return receit request.
I got a signature, but haven't yet seen a reply from Mr. Spadoni.
It's been more than seven months.
Guess it's not happening.

Bernie O'Hare said...

That's a safe assumption. I'd give him a call again and tell him you need an answer.

Anonymous said...

Another well written opinion from one of Northampton County's own.

republicans tell the truth said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Bernie O'Hare said...

He is not an elected officials. Identify yourself and I will allow the comment.

Anonymous said...

he's too busy running point guard for mindless teachers.