Background: Dismissal of the Initial Lawsuit

Calumet City is seeking a reversal or new trial after a Cook County judge dismissed its lawsuit against ⁣Clerk Nyota ⁤figgs. Judge Joel Chupack dismissed the lawsuit in July 2025, finding ⁢the city’s case “woefully insufficient.” The lawsuit alleged that Figgs illegally shredded records shortly⁣ after Mayor Thaddeus Jones entered ‍office.

City’s Request for Reversal or New ‍Trial

Following Judge Chupack’s denial of their request for extra time to file posttrial motions on August 20, Calumet City is now requesting another judge to overrule Chupack’s verdict or grant ⁤a new trial. The city⁢ also filed a motion to enforce a settlement it claims was reached with⁣ Figgs before⁣ Chupack’s ruling.

Robert Hoban, Calumet City’s attorney, stated that the posttrial motions would be relevant if the court declines to enforce the settlement. This highlights the city’s strategy to pursue multiple avenues for legal recourse.

Disputed Settlement Agreement

Figgs denies reaching a settlement agreement with the⁣ city. Though, she acknowledged discussions about a possible settlement that would apply to both‍ the document destruction lawsuit and her own lawsuit against the ⁣city and Jones. The existence‍ and terms ⁣of any settlement⁢ remain in dispute.

City’s Argument for Reversal

Calumet City argues that‍ the evidence presented during the trial supports its claim that Figgs lacked the authority to shred documents. The city contends that it did not approve of the shredding and that Figgs intended ⁢to destroy the documents without Mayor Jones’ approval.

The city emphasizes that Figgs’ decision to destroy records despite prior warnings,combined with the destruction of ⁣documents outside the presence of auditors,demonstrates a clear violation of protocol.

Political Context

The legal battle unfolds⁣ amidst‍ a backdrop of political tension in Calumet City. Jones‍ and Figgs ⁤both secured reelection this year ⁣in a race marked ⁢by political divisions and personal attacks. This context underscores the meaning of the lawsuit and its potential impact on the city’s governance.