Filed on July 25 by Rogers, the lawsuit alleges defamation, unfair business practices, malicious prosecution, and abuse of legal processes that have damaged the business of owner Emmanuel Manolakas. Rogers calls for a jury trial, unspecified punitive damages, trebled damages where allowed by state statute, attorney fees, and prejudgment and post-judgment interest of 8%.
A late-night crash in Morganton resulted in DWI and reckless driving charges for a man who collided with a brick wall along a resident's driveway. Bobby Eugene Smith Jr., 60, of 106 Kimberly Drive, was charged with DWI and careless and reckless driving. In a separate incident, a Morganton woman, Morgan Tiara Smith, 25, faced DWI and drug charges following an early morning collision with a building. She was also charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and other offenses. The crashes led to injuries, property damage, and legal proceedings in the Burke County District Court.
In the aftermath of the Bella Vino trial, the City of Morganton, with the assistance of newly appointed attorney Daniel E. Peterson, is challenging the $705,000 verdict through various motions. The City, represented by Peterson and Andrew Santaniello, has filed motions seeking a new trial, judgment alteration, and relief, citing concerns over flawed jury instructions and speculative damages. The dispute centers around a breach of contract claim against owner Emmanuel Manolakas, with the City requesting a reduction in the award or a new trial to address perceived issues. The upcoming motion hearing on July 16 at the Burke County Courthouse will further examine the City's efforts to challenge the jury's decision and potentially mitigate post-judgment interest.
