Police Union Scores Wins Over Competitor in IP, Defamation Suit

A Michigan police union won multiple victories against its competitor in a group of lawsuits alleging defamation, trademark violations, and contract breaches from both parties.

The International Unions, Security Police and Fire Professionals of America convinced a federal judge on Friday to deny its competitor summary judgment against SPFPA’s counterclaims, which allege its ex-director broke contracts, violated its trademark, and engaged in unfair competition.

At the center of the dispute is SPFPA’s slogan and lion imagery, which the union alleges plaintiff Steve Maritas wrongfully used in materials for his own competing union.

“Even in light of the patent similarity between ...