The case was publicized for the amount of damages awarded to the plaintiff, and the permanent injunction ordered against the defendant.

A contribution claim asserts the party (usually a defendant) is entitled to "contribution" from a third party for any money damages awarded to the plaintiff.

Of those cases that Searle has lost, the largest amount of damages awarded to the plaintiff was $250,000, and punitive damages have never been awarded.

The jury may still find wrongdoing by the former Mayor and Police Commissioner, but under yesterday's ruling any damages awarded to the plaintiffs for violations of Federal law will be paid by the city.