Court dismisses towing company’s lawsuit against Monroe County sheriff

MONROE COUNTY, Mich. – A lawsuit a towing company filed against Monroe County has been dismissed.

In 2022, Rockwood Auto Parts, Inc., Rockwood Towing Inc., and owner Jacques Poli filed a civil suit against Monroe County, Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough, and Detective Sergeant Michael Preadmore.

The lawsuit alleged that the sheriff’s office had performed an unconstitutional search of Poli’s business and home. The lawsuit also made equal protection claims regarding vehicle maintenance and a no-preference tow policy, and claims of denial of due process.

On Aug. 29, 2024, the court ruled in favor of the county, Goodnough, and Preadmore. The case was dismissed with prejudice of all complaints.

“This decision by the court, after looking at the facts and evidence, reaffirmed good government and practices by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the county. On each and every allegation made, the court reviewed the testimony at deposition, the records, and the facts. What resulted was the full and complete dismissal of these allegations. For chief deputy Preadmore, fully and completely defeating the meritless allegations of an improper search was an expected outcome as every action taken was within the law and constitution,” sheriff Goodnough said.

According to officials, Rockwood Towing will remain on the no-preference tow list.