Las Vegas, Nevada
August 21, 2024
In the latest twist in the ongoing legal battle between the City of Las Vegas and Victoria Seaman, the City has filed a forceful response to Seaman’s petition for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and Preliminary Injunction, exposing what it calls a “misunderstanding of law and facts” in Seaman’s claims. Seaman, a current Las Vegas City Council member and mayoral candidate, had sought to prevent the disclosure of a settlement agreement related to a lawsuit she and her husband filed against the City, claiming that such disclosure could cause irreparable harm. However, the City argues that Seaman’s legal maneuvering is baseless and potentially part of a more troubling narrative involving her financial struggles and questionable actions.
Misrepresentation of Confidentiality and Legal Obligations
The heart of the City’s argument centers on the terms of the 2019 settlement agreement, which resolved a 2017 lawsuit filed by Seaman and her husband, John Seaman, following a 2015 motor vehicle accident. The agreement, signed by all parties, included a confidentiality clause—though critically, this clause only applied to the Seamans, not the City or any other defendants. As the City points out, it is legally obligated to comply with the Nevada Public Records Act (NPRA) when responding to public records requests, including the one at issue, which sought a copy of the settlement agreement.
In its response, the City meticulously dismantles Seaman’s petition, emphasizing that the settlement agreement is a public record by law. The City underscores that it is not, nor has it ever been, bound by any confidentiality obligations concerning this agreement. Moreover, the City argues that Seaman’s claims of potential harm from the agreement’s release are purely speculative and fail to meet the legal standard required to justify a TRO or injunction. Seaman’s fears that the public might misinterpret the settlement terms do not constitute a valid legal reason to withhold a public document.
Financial Troubles and Potential Insurance Fraud
But there’s more to this case than just a legal dispute over public records. Rumors have begun circulating that Seaman, currently running for mayor, may face more severe charges than merely suing the City—potentially even insurance fraud. Sources close to the matter suggest that Seaman’s financial situation was precarious when she filed her lawsuit against the City. This has led to questions about whether her actions were motivated by economic desperation rather than genuine grievances.
The City’s response also hints at this troubling possibility, noting that Seaman’s lawsuit and subsequent attempts to keep the settlement confidential may be part of a broader pattern of questionable behavior. This raises the stakes significantly, as Seaman’s legal and financial troubles could have far-reaching implications for her political career and public reputation.
The Legal and Political Implications
The City of Las Vegas is not pulling any punches in its legal response, making it clear that it will not be swayed by what it describes as Seaman’s attempt to use the courts to shield herself from public scrutiny. The City’s argument is bolstered by a straightforward reading of Nevada law, which mandates transparency in government dealings—especially when they involve public officials like Seaman.
The response highlights that the settlement agreement, by its very nature as a document involving a public entity, is subject to disclosure under the NPRA. The City even proposes that, at most, certain portions of the agreement could be redacted to address any legitimate privacy concerns. However, it tells that none of the other co-defendants in the original lawsuit, who might have a more valid claim to privacy, have objected to the agreement’s release.
In stark contrast, Seaman’s petition appears increasingly flimsy, built on a foundation of speculative harm and legal misinterpretations. The City’s response not only requests that the court deny Seaman’s petition but also positions Seaman’s actions as a disingenuous attempt to manipulate the legal system for personal and political gain.
A Case of Public Interest
As Seaman continues her campaign for mayor, this legal battle over disclosing her past legal settlements will likely become a focal point. The City’s response suggests a significant public interest in releasing the settlement agreement, particularly given Seaman’s current role as a public official and her ambitions for higher office.
The case raises important questions about transparency, accountability, and the lengths public officials may go to protect their interests. As this story unfolds, the public will be watching closely to see how Seaman navigates these legal challenges—and what the ultimate impact will be on her political future.
In the meantime, the City of Las Vegas remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that public records remain accessible to those they serve: the citizens of Las Vegas.
In Closing:
To all those disbelievers who still think Victoria Seaman didn’t sue the City of Las Vegas, join us as we observe this court hearing on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 9:30 AM in Judge Bita Yeager’s courtroom, the Regional Justice Center.
