Judge Tosses Leroy Truth’s Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Mayor Stack, Public Officials

A federal judge has dismissed a civil rights lawsuit filed by Leonard Filipowski, also known as “Leroy Truth,” who accused Mayor Brian Stack and other public officials of retaliating against him for his public comments and activism.

In a ruling dated September 25, 2025, U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton dismissed all claims brought by Filipowski against the New Jersey State Police, the cities of Union City and Jersey City, and several named individuals, including Stack and State Senator Paul Sarlo.

Filipowski’s complaint centered on three incidents: his arrest at a Union City commissioners meeting in July 2024, his removal from a state Senate hearing in February 2025, and his ejection from a Jersey City church in March 2024.

The court found that Stack and Sarlo were immune from suit for actions taken during the legislative hearing and ruled that Filipowski’s arrest at the Union City meeting was justified by repeated refusals to follow speaking rules. Claims stemming from the church episode were also dismissed, with the judge noting that churches, as private property, may remove individuals with police assistance.

Judge Wigenton also dismissed Filipowski’s allegations of conspiracy and municipal misconduct, stating he “alleges no concrete facts.” The court rejected all claims against the New Jersey State Police based on state immunity protections.

The judge dismissed some claims with prejudice, including those involving legislative immunity and state agencies. Filipowski was given 30 days to file a revised complaint. If he does not, the case will be closed permanently.