UPLAND, PA — A federal judge has thrown out a civil rights lawsuit filed by a Pennsylvania man who claimed local officials violated his constitutional rights through repeated parking citations and enforcement actions.
U.S. District Judge Gerald J. Pappert dismissed the amended complaint filed by Carmen Santucci against the Borough of Upland and two officials, ruling that the claims failed to meet the legal standard required to proceed. The dismissal “with prejudice” means the case cannot be refiled.
Dispute Stemmed From Local Parking Ordinance
The case centered on a borough rule prohibiting residents from parking vehicles on unpaved surfaces at residential properties.
According to court filings, Santucci was cited eight times over several years by a code enforcement officer for violating that ordinance. State courts found him guilty in at least some cases, resulting in fines and costs.
Santucci also alleged that a local constable used arrest warrants tied to those violations to pressure him into paying fines during in-person encounters.
Claims Rejected Despite Opportunity to Amend
Santucci initially filed the lawsuit under federal civil rights law, accusing borough officials of violating his constitutional protections, including due process.
The court previously dismissed parts of his case but gave him a chance to revise his claims. Instead of addressing the deficiencies, the judge found that his amended complaint largely repeated the same arguments.
Court Finds Allegations Legally Insufficient
Judge Pappert ruled that Santucci failed to provide enough factual detail to show a plausible constitutional violation.
While courts must interpret filings from self-represented plaintiffs generously, the judge said the complaint still did not meet the threshold required under federal rules.
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Key Points
• Federal judge dismissed civil rights lawsuit over Upland parking citations
• Plaintiff alleged constitutional violations tied to repeated fines and enforcement
• Court ruled amended complaint failed to state a valid legal claim
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No Further Opportunity to Revive Case
Because the dismissal was issued with prejudice, Santucci cannot file another amended complaint in this case.
Current Status
The lawsuit is fully dismissed, ending Santucci’s federal challenge against the borough and its officials.