Motions to Dismiss Denied in Former DA Michael Gressett's Lawsuit for Politically Motivated Malicious Prosecution

OAKLAND, Calif., Dec. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer, attorneys for plaintiff Michael Gressett, release the following: On December 18, 2013, Northern District Judge Edward Chen denied motions to dismiss Michael Gressett's case filed by Contra Costa County, Former District Attorney Robert Kochly, Former Contra Costa County Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Paul Sequeira, Former Contra Costa County Chief Deputy District Attorney Brian Baker; Chief Investigator Gene Greenwald; Darryl Jackson, Paul Mulligan and former judge and 2010 Contra Costa District Attorney candidate Dan O'Malley. After his criminal case was dismissed, former Contra Costa County Deputy District Attorney Michael Gressett filed a civil lawsuit for a politically motivated malicious prosecution, defamation and violation of his constitutional rights.  Judge Chen denied motions to dismiss Mr. Gressett's claims of malicious prosecution against these Defendants and denied motions to dismiss Mr. Gressett's defamation claim against Paul Sequeira and Darryl Jackson.  Gressett alleged that these Defendants conspired to maliciously prosecute him on false allegations of rape in order to secure Mr. O'Malley's election to Contra Costa County District Attorney in 2010.  

Gressett's lawyer, Gary Gwilliam said, "We are very pleased with these rulings and Michael Gressett is looking forward to getting justice and having his day in court after many years of litigation."

Judge Chen set a further case management conference for January 23, 2014.  At that time, Gressett hopes to get a trial date so he can finally have his day in court. 

Mr. Gressett is available for interview by contacting the Law Offices of Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer. 

CONTACT: For questions please contact J. Gary Gwilliam at 510-832-5411 or [email protected]. If Mr. Gwilliam is not available please contact Randall E. Strauss or for copies of the opinion contact Jayme L. Burns at 510-832-5411 or [email protected].  

SOURCE The Law Firm of Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer