Now this drama is over they can lurch onto the next one
Grant Smith – Ellis reports
Here’s the statement from spokesperson for Shannon O’Brien, Joe Baerlein, after O’Brien was formally reinstated to her position as Massachusetts CCC Chair following an overnight ruling from the Appeals Court and Goldberg decided against further appeals.
“Chair O’Brien, Chair of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) is gratified to learn that Treasurer Goldberg will not pursue any further appeal, and that the independent CCC can operate without any further interference from the Treasurer.
“Even after defeat, Treasurer Goldberg tries to save face. Anyone who reads the Superior Court’s decision and underlying evidence will conclude that Chair O’Brien did not harass, bully, intimidate or discriminate against anyone.
“Treasurer Goldberg is the only person who reached this conclusion, based on “blinkered” reasoning after she brought a case that was “a house of cards.” Chair O’Brien stood up for herself and bravely fought for justice.
“Chair O’Brien looks forward to continuing her career of exemplary public service and ensuring that the CCC fulfils its statutory obligations so that the CCC can serve the public as originally intended,” said Baerlein.
O’Brien has been engaged in a protracted multi-year legal battle with Goldberg that culminated earlier this month in a jaw-dropping ruling from Suffolk Superior Court Justice Robert B. Gordon. Judge Gordon found that Goldberg’s case for firing O’Brien was a “house of cards” akin to “thin gruel” that defined a protracted “Dickensian drama.” Judge Gordon further prevented Goldberg from seeking a stay in his court (as Judge Gordon said Goldberg had no chance of winning on appeal). Goldberg then went to the appeals court and obtained a temporary stay.
Appeals Court Justice Gloria Tam affirmed Judge Gordon’s ruling on Wednesday, resulting in O’Brien’s reinstatement and the temporary stay being lifted.
Sean Hocking
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