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Case TitleAGUIAR v. DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION
DistrictDistrict of Columbia
CityWashington, DC
Case Number1:2014cv00240
Date Filed2014-01-13
Date Closed2018-11-15
JudgeJudge Ellen S. Huvelle
PlaintiffSTEPHEN AGUIAR
Case DescriptionStephen Aguiar submitted a FOIA request to the DEA for records concerning data from a GPS tracking system used during his trial on drug charges in Vermont. After hearing nothing further from the agency, Aguiar filed suit.
Complaint issues: Failure to respond within statutory time limit

DefendantDRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION
Documents
Docket
Complaint
Complaint attachment 1
Complaint attachment 2
Complaint attachment 3
Complaint attachment 4
Opinion/Order [96]
FOIA Project Annotation: Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle has ruled that Stephen Aguiar is not entitled to GPS software or new mapping images from the DEA, but that the agency has not yet shown that it conducted an adequate search for records concerning administrative subpoenas requested by Aguiar. Aguiar was convicted in 2011 of federal drug charges in Vermont and is serving a 30-month sentence. Starting in 2013, Aguiar submitted multiple FOIA requests to the DEA for records concerning his prosecution and conviction, focusing on four administrative subpoenas and GPS tracking software used as part of the agency's investigation. The agency told Huvelle that it had conducted a search for the subpoenas but did not find them and that the GPS tracking software was developed by a private vendor and was not an agency record. In her earlier decision in the case, Huvelle accepted the agency's assertions. Aguiar appealed to the D.C. Circuit and the appeals court remanded the case, finding the agency had not met its burden of proof on either issue and noting that since the agency admitted the subpoenas had existed at one time the agency needed to provide a more detailed explanation of why it believed the subpoenas no longer existed. This time, on remand, the agency provided more detailed affidavits to support its original position. Huvelle accepted the agency's supplemental affidavit, noting that "there is no DEA system that tracks all administrative subpoenas; rather, those subpoenas are stored as paper copies in the hard-copy case file. . .Two relevant files were identified based on Aguiar's identifying information and the date range he specified in his request. Burlington Office staff then manually searched those files. Although the subpoenas, whose existence is not in dispute, were not found, the Court is persuaded that the search was diligent and reasonably likely to turn up any relevant records." Aguiar had previously argued before the D.C. Circuit that the search for the subpoenas was inadequate because the agency had failed to contact the DEA agent who signed the subpoenas. The D.C. Circuit had rejected that argument because Aguiar had not made it during his administrative appeal or before Huvelle. Agreeing that at this point this was a lead that the agency was required to explore, she rejected DEA's claim that such an inquiry would be "futile." She pointed out that "this assessment is insufficient. Success need not be guaranteed to warrant follow-up. . .It is not merely speculative, and indeed seems reasonable, to suppose that [the agent] may recall that the subpoenas were stored in a different type of file or some other location, and the DEA should make a good-faith effort to reach him to pursue this lead." Turning to the issue of whether or not the GPS tracking software was an agency record, Huvelle observed that "the documents and explanations describe significant limitations on the DEA's use of the software, most notably that the contract prohibits its distribution. The Court is satisfied that the DEA did not 'obtain' and 'control' the software because the limited terms of the license established no 'intent' to retain control over it. . ." Aguiar nevertheless argued that he was entitled to images of the GPS maps used during his investigation. Huvelle agreed with the agency that providing the images would require the agency to create a record. She observed that "the multiple steps between the spreadsheets and the requested images. . .strongly suggests that the output would not be a straightforward reproduction of the spreadsheets, but a new record with significant added meaning."
Issues: Adequacy - Search, Agency Record - Control
User-contributed Documents
 
Docket Events (Hide)
Date FiledDoc #Docket Text

2014-01-131COMPLAINT against DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Filing fee $ 0.00) filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Exhibit A, # 3 Exhibit B, # 4 Exhibit C)(rc) (Entered: 02/27/2014)
2014-01-13SUMMONS (3) Issued as to DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION, U.S. Attorney and U.S. Attorney General. (rc) (Entered: 02/27/2014)
2014-01-132MOTION for Leave to Proceed in forma pauperis by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (rc) (Entered: 02/27/2014)
2014-01-133PRISONER TRUST FUND ACCOUNT STATEMENT for period of six months by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (rc) (Entered: 02/27/2014)
2014-01-134ORDER directing an initial partial filing fee of $28.10 to the Clerk of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia from the Prison Account of STEPHEN AGUIAR. It is further ordered that the Plaintiff's application to proceed in forma pauperis 2 is GRANTED, except to the extend that Plaintiff is required to make the payments set forth in this order. Signed by Judge Reggie B. Walton on 01/08/2014. (rc) (Entered: 02/27/2014)
2014-03-045MOTION to Appoint Counsel by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf, ) (Entered: 03/06/2014)
2014-03-117RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed on United States Attorney General. Date of Service Upon United States Attorney General 03/05/2014. (jf, ) (Entered: 03/12/2014)
2014-03-126ORDER denying 5 Motion to Appoint Counsel. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on March 12, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 03/12/2014)
2014-03-268RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed. DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION served on 3/26/2014 (jf, ) (Entered: 03/27/2014)
2014-04-079RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed as to the United States Attorney. Date of Service Upon United States Attorney on 4/2/2014. Answer due for ALL FEDERAL DEFENDANTS by 5/2/2014. (rdj) (Entered: 04/07/2014)
2014-04-1010NOTICE of Appearance by Timothy E. Broomhead on behalf of DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Broomhead, Timothy) (Entered: 04/10/2014)
2014-05-0211First MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply to Plaintiff's Complaint by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Broomhead, Timothy) (Entered: 05/02/2014)
2014-05-06MINUTE ORDER granting 11 Motion for Extension of Time: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Extension of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is FURTHER ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including June 30, 2014, to respond to the Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on May 6, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 05/06/2014)
2014-05-06Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer due by 6/30/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 05/06/2014)
2014-06-3012MOTION for Extension of Time to File a Response to Plaintiff's Complaint by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Broomhead, Timothy) (Entered: 06/30/2014)
2014-07-03MINUTE ORDER granting 12 Motion for Extension of Time: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Extension of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is FURTHER ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including August 29, 2014, to respond to the Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on July 3, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 07/03/2014)
2014-07-07Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer due by 8/29/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 07/07/2014)
2014-08-1513AMENDED COMPLAINT against DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR.(jf, ) (Entered: 08/18/2014)
2014-08-2714MOTION for Extension of Time to File a Response to Plaintiff's Amended Complaint by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Broomhead, Timothy) (Entered: 08/27/2014)
2014-08-28MINUTE ORDER granting 14 Motion for Extension of Time: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Extension of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is further ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including September 29, 2014, to respond to the Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on August 28, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 08/28/2014)
2014-08-28Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer due by 9/29/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 08/28/2014)
2014-09-0515NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTION OF COUNSEL by Laura Emily Jennings on behalf of DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION Substituting for attorney Timothy Broomhead (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 09/05/2014)
2014-09-2916MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 09/29/2014)
2014-09-29MINUTE ORDER granting 16 defendant's Motion for Extension of Time: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Extension of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is FURTHER ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including October 29, 2014, to respond to the Amended Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on September 29, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 09/29/2014)
2014-09-30Set/Reset Deadlines: Response to Amended Complaint due by 10/29/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 09/30/2014)
2014-10-2817MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 10/28/2014)
2014-10-30MINUTE ORDER granting 17 Motion for Extension of Time: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Enlargement of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is FURTHER ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including December 2, 2014,to respond to the Amended Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on October 30, 2014. (AG) (Entered: 10/30/2014)
2014-10-31Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer to Amended Complaint due by 12/2/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 10/31/2014)
2014-12-0118MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 12/01/2014)
2014-12-01MINUTE ORDER granting 18 Motion for Extension of Time to File: UPON CONSIDERATION of Defendant's Motion for an Enlargement of Time, the merits therein, and for good cause shown, it is hereby ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED; and it is FURTHER ORDERED that Defendant shall have up to and including January 8, 2015, to respond to the Amended Complaint. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on December 1, 2014. (AG, ) (Entered: 12/01/2014)
2014-12-02Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer to Amended Complaint due by 1/8/2015. (zmm, ) (Entered: 12/02/2014)
2014-12-04Set/Reset Deadlines: Answer to Amended Complaint due by 1/8/2015. (zmm, ) (Entered: 12/04/2014)
2014-12-1119Memorandum in opposition to re 18 MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (jf, ) (Entered: 12/12/2014)
2015-01-0820ANSWER to 13 Amended Complaint by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. Related document: 13 Amended Complaint filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR.(Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 01/08/2015)
2015-01-12MINUTE ORDER SETTING BRIEFING SCHEDULE: On January 8, 2015, after having been granted numerous extensions of time, defendant filed its answer to plaintiff's amended complaint. Having reviewed the amended complaint and the answer, and as the requirements of Local Civil Rule 16.3 and Rule 26(f) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure are inapplicable to this FOIA case, it is hereby ORDERED that the following schedule shall apply to further proceedings in this matter: (1) defendant shall have until February 9, 2015, to produce any additional responsive documents and to produce a Vaughn index that corresponds to the 232 pages the DEA withheld in response to plaintiffs July 11, 2013 FOIA request and any additional documents that are withheld; (2) defendant shall have until March 2, 2015, to file its dispositive motion; (2) plaintiff shall file his opposition and any cross-motion by March 30, 2015; (3) defendant shall file its reply and opposition to any cross-motion by April 20, 2015; and (4) plaintiff shall file his reply by May 11, 2015. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on January 12, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 01/12/2015)
2015-01-12Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendant to produce any additional responsive documents by 2/9/2015; Dispositive Motion due by 3/2/2015. Response to Dispositive Motion and Cross Motion due by 3/30/2015. Reply to Dispositive Motion and Response to Cross Motion due by 4/20/2015. Reply to Cross Motion due by 5/11/2015. (zmm, ) (Entered: 01/12/2015)
2015-01-2021MOTION for Vaughn Index by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf, ) (Entered: 01/22/2015)
2015-01-2022MOTION to Expedite by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf, ) (Entered: 01/22/2015)
2015-01-2023MOTION for Case Management Order by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf, ) (Entered: 01/22/2015)
2015-01-22MINUTE ORDER: On January 12, 2015, the Court issued an Order directing the government to file a Vaughn index and setting an expedited briefing schedule. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's 21 Motion for Vaughn Index, 22 Motion to Expedite, and 23 Motion for Scheduling Order are DENIED AS MOOT; and it is further ORDERED that the Clerk shall include another copy of the Court's January 12, 2015 Order with the copy of this order sent to plaintiff. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on January 22, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 01/22/2015)
2015-02-0924NOTICE of Filing by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 02/09/2015)
2015-02-2425MOTION for Extension of Time to file dispositive motion by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Jennings, Laura) (Entered: 02/24/2015)
2015-02-25MINUTE ORDER granting in part and denying in part 25 defendant's Motion for Extension of Time: Upon consideration of defendant's motion, plaintiff's presumed opposition thereto, the multiple extensions of time granted to defendant to file its answer, and the entire record herein, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED IN PART AND DENIED IN PART; it is further ORDERED that defendant shall file its Vaughn index with the Court and produce the withheld documents for ex parte, in camera review by March 2, 2015; and it is further ORDERED that defendant shall have until March 10, 2015 to file its dispositive motion; plaintiff shall have until April 7, 2015, to file its opposition and any cross-motion; defendant shall file its reply and its opposition to any cross-motion by April 27, 2015; and plaintiff shall file its reply by May 18, 2015. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on February 25, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 02/25/2015)
2015-02-2626NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTION OF COUNSEL by Eric Joseph Young on behalf of All Defendants Substituting for attorney Laura E. Jennings (Young, Eric) (Entered: 02/26/2015)
2015-03-0227NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION re Order on Motion for Extension of Time to,,, (Young, Eric) (Entered: 03/02/2015)
2015-03-0928MOTION for Extension of Time to File Dispositive Motion by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Declaration of Agency Counsel)(Young, Eric) (Entered: 03/09/2015)
2015-03-1329RESPONSE re 27 NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit)(jf, ) (Entered: 03/16/2015)
2015-03-31MINUTE ORDER granting in part and denying in part 28 defendant's Motion for Extension of Time to File Dispositive Motion: Upon consideration of defendant's motion, plaintiff's lack of opposition thereto, the number of prior extensions of time sought and granted, and the entire record herein, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED IN PART AND DENIED IN PART; and it is further ORDERED that defendant shall have until April 20, 2015, to file its dispositive motion in the above-captioned case. No further extensions of time will be granted. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on March 31, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 03/31/2015)
2015-04-0830First MOTION for Summary Judgment by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support Memorandum of Point & Authorities (includes certificate of service), # 2 Statement of Facts, # 3 Declaration DEA Myrick's Declaration, # 4 Exhibit Declaration Exhibits A to HH, # 5 Exhibit Vaughn Index Part I, # 6 Exhibit Vaughn Index Part II, # 7 Exhibit VAughn Index Part III)(Young, Eric) (Entered: 04/08/2015)
2015-04-0931Order advising plaintiff to respond or Court may deem matter as conceded re 30 First MOTION for Summary Judgment filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. Plaintiff's response is due by 5/11/2015. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on April 9, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 04/09/2015)
2015-04-09Set/Reset Deadlines: Response to defendant's motion for summary judgment due by 5/11/2014. (zmm, ) (Entered: 04/09/2015)
2015-05-0832Memorandum in opposition to re 30 First MOTION for Summary Judgment filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (td, ) (Entered: 05/11/2015)
2015-05-1833REPLY to opposition to motion re 30 First MOTION for Summary Judgment filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Young, Eric) (Entered: 05/18/2015)
2015-07-2034ORDER to defendant to file supplemental declaration by August 3, 2015. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on July 20, 2015. (AG) . (Entered: 07/20/2015)
2015-07-20Set/Reset Deadlines/Hearings: Defendant's supplemental declaration due by 8/3/2015. (cdw) (Entered: 07/20/2015)
2015-07-2435MOTION for Extension of Time to respond to Court Order by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Young, Eric) (Entered: 07/24/2015)
2015-07-27MINUTE ORDER granting in part and denying in part 35 defendant's Motion for Extension of Time: Upon consideration of defendant's motion, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED IN PART AND DENIED IN PART; and it is further ORDERED that defendant shall respond to the Court's July 20, 2015 Order by September 10, 2015. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on July 27, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 07/27/2015)
2015-07-27Set/Reset Deadlines: Response to Court's 7/20/2015 Order due by 9/10/2015. (zmm) (Entered: 07/27/2015)
2015-09-0936NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION re 34 Order (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Supplemental)(Young, Eric) (Entered: 09/09/2015)
2015-09-1737RESPONSE re 36 NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (jf) (Entered: 09/18/2015)
2015-09-3038MEMORANDUM OPINION re 30 defendant's motion for summary judgment. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on September 30, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 09/30/2015)
2015-09-3039ORDER granting in part and deferring ruling in part on 30 defendant's Motion for Summary Judgment for the reasons stated in the accompanying Memorandum Opinion (ECF No. 38 ). Defendant to file supplemental affidavit and notice of mailing CD to plaintiff by October 21, 2015. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on September 30, 2015. (AG) (Main Document 39 replaced on 9/30/2015) (jf). (Entered: 09/30/2015)
2015-09-30Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendant to file affidavit and notify the Court that it has mailed a copy of the CD with the GPS tracking data to Plaintiff by 10/21/2015. (zmm) (Entered: 09/30/2015)
2015-10-0940NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTION OF COUNSEL by Caitlin O'Leary Trujillo on behalf of All Defendants Substituting for attorney Eric Young (Trujillo, Caitlin) (Entered: 10/09/2015)
2015-10-2041MOTION for Extension of Time to Comply with Court's Order by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Trujillo, Caitlin) (Entered: 10/20/2015)
2015-10-20MINUTE ORDER granting 41 Defendant's Motion for Extension of Time: Upon Consideration of Defendant's Motion for Enlargement of Time, it is hereby ORDERED that Defendant's Motion is GRANTED; and it is further ORDERED that Defendant shall have until November 9, 2015, to comply with the Court's September 30, 2015 Order. No further extensions of time will be granted. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on October 20, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 10/20/2015)
2015-10-20Set/Reset Deadlines/Hearings: Defendant's compliance to Court's 9/30/15 Order due by 11/9/2015. (cdw) (Entered: 10/22/2015)
2015-11-0942MOTION for Extension of Time to File Supplemental Declaration by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Trujillo, Caitlin) (Entered: 11/09/2015)
2015-11-1043NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION re 39 Order on Motion for Summary Judgment, (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Supplemental Declaration of Katherine Myrick)(Trujillo, Caitlin) (Entered: 11/10/2015)
2015-11-10MINUTE ORDER granting 42 defendant's Motion for Extension of Time. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on November 10, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 11/10/2015)
2015-11-1944MOTION to reconsider interlocutory order by STEPHEN AGUIAR (td) (Entered: 11/20/2015)
2015-11-2347RESPONSE re 43 NOTICE of Compliance with Court Order filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (jf) (Entered: 11/25/2015)
2015-11-2445MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on November 24, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 11/24/2015)
2015-11-2446ORDER denying 44 plaintiff's Motion to Reconsider September 30, 2015 Order 39 , granting summary judgment to defendant on one remaining issue, and directing Clerk to close case. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on November 24, 2015. (AG) (Entered: 11/24/2015)
2015-12-1048MOTION to Alter Judgment as to 46 Order on Motion for Order, 45 Memorandum & Opinion by STEPHEN AGUIAR (td) (Entered: 12/15/2015)
2015-12-1049MOTION to Award Fees and Costs to Plaintiff by STEPHEN AGUIAR (td) (Entered: 12/15/2015)
2016-01-1550ORDER denying 48 plaintiff's Motion to Alter Judgment; granting in part and denying in part 49 plaintiff's Motion for Order Awarding Fees and Costs. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on January 15, 2016. (AG) (Entered: 01/15/2016)
2016-02-0151NOTICE OF APPEAL as to 50 Order on Motion to Alter Judgment, Order on Motion for Order, 46 Order on Motion for Order, 45 Memorandum & Opinion by STEPHEN AGUIAR. Fee Status: No Fee Paid. Parties have been notified. (jf) (Entered: 02/02/2016)
2016-02-0152MOTION for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Additional attachment(s) added on 2/2/2016: # 1 Affidavit Financial) (jf). (Entered: 02/02/2016)
2016-02-0253Transmission of the Notice of Appeal, Order Appealed, and Docket Sheet to US Court of Appeals. Motion to proceed on appeal in forma pauperis has been filed. Another transmission will be forwarded when the motion has been decided re 51 Notice of Appeal. (jf) (Entered: 02/02/2016)
2016-02-02MINUTE ORDER granting 52 Motion for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis: It is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's motion for leave to proceed in forma pauperis on appeal is GRANTED. The Clerk of Court shall transmit a copy of this Order to the Court of Appeals. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on February 2, 2016. (AG) (Entered: 02/02/2016)
2016-02-0354Supplemental Record on Appeal transmitted to US Court of Appeals re Minute Order granting Motion for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis ; USCA Case No. Unknown. (znmw) (Entered: 02/03/2016)
2016-02-10USCA Case Number 16-5029 for 51 Notice of Appeal filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (zrdj) (Entered: 02/10/2016)
2016-03-0755MOTION to Alter or Amend Judgment as to 50 Order on Motion to Alter Judgment, Order on Motion for Order by STEPHEN AGUIAR. "Let this be filed" signed by Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle on 03/01/2016 (jf) (Entered: 03/07/2016)
2016-03-2456Memorandum in opposition to re 55 MOTION to Alter Judgment as to 50 Order on Motion to Alter Judgment, Order on Motion for Order filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Trujillo, Caitlin) (Entered: 03/24/2016)
2016-04-0457REPLY to opposition to re 55 MOTION to Alter Judgment as to 50 Order on Motion to Alter Judgment, Order on Motion for Order filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (jf) (Entered: 04/06/2016)
2016-04-0658ORDER denying 55 Plaintiff's Motion to Alter Judgment. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on April 6, 2016. (AG) (Entered: 04/06/2016)
2016-10-1759MOTION to Compel by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Entered: 10/19/2016)
2016-10-2760NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTION OF COUNSEL by Johnny Hillary Walker, III on behalf of DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION Substituting for attorney Caitlin O'Leary Trujillo (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 10/27/2016)
2016-10-2761RESPONSE re 59 MOTION to Compel filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 10/27/2016)
2016-10-28MINUTE ORDER re 59 MOTION to Compel filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR and 61 Response to motion filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION: Upon consideration of plaintiff's motion to compel and defendant's response thereto, it is hereby ORDERED that defendant shall have until November 28, 2016, to notify the Court that payment has been accomplished or to file a status report that explains why not. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on October 28, 2016. (AG) (Entered: 10/28/2016)
2016-10-31Set/Reset Deadlines: Status Report due by 11/28/2016 (gdf) (Entered: 10/31/2016)
2016-11-2862STATUS REPORT by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 11/28/2016)
2016-11-29MINUTE ORDER re 62 Status Report filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION: Upon consideration of defendant's status report filed on November 28, 2106, it is hereby ORDERED that defendant shall have until December 28, 2016, to notify the Court that payment has been accomplished or to file a status report that explains why not. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on November 29, 2016. (AG) (Entered: 11/29/2016)
2016-12-01Set/Reset Deadlines: Status Report due by 12/28/2016 (gdf) (Entered: 12/01/2016)
2016-12-1563STATUS REPORT by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 12/15/2016)
2017-01-03MINUTE ORDER denying 59 plaintiff's Motion to Compel as moot: Upon consideration of 63 defendant's status report indicating that it has issued payment to Mr. Aguiar in the amount of $450.00, it is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's motion to compel is DENIED AS MOOT. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on January 3, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 01/03/2017)
2017-01-2664MOTION to Alter/Amend Judgment as to Minute Order filed on 01/03/2017, by STEPHEN AGUIAR (zjf) (Entered: 01/27/2017)
2017-02-0965Memorandum in opposition to re 64 MOTION to Alter Judgment as to Order on Motion to Compel, filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 02/09/2017)
2017-02-2466REPLY to opposition to re 64 MOTION to Alter Judgment as to Order on Motion to Compel, filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (jf) (Entered: 02/27/2017)
2017-03-1367MOTION for Leave to File to File Surreply by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Surreply, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 03/13/2017)
2017-03-15MINUTE ORDER granting 67 Motion for Leave to File Surreply: Upon consideration of Defendant's motion for leave to file a surreply, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED; and it is further ORDERED that the proposed surreply attached to Defendant's motion for leave shall be deemed filed as of this date. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on March 15, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 03/15/2017)
2017-03-1568SURREPLY to re 64 MOTION to Alter Judgment as to Order on Motion to Compel, filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (znmw) (Entered: 03/16/2017)
2017-03-1769ORDER denying 64 plaintiff's Motion to Alter January 3, 2017 Order. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on March 17, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 03/17/2017)
2017-03-1770MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint or New Complaint by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Entered: 03/20/2017)
2017-03-2971Memorandum in opposition to re 70 MOTION for Leave to File filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 03/29/2017)
2017-03-29MINUTE ORDER denying 70 plaintiff's Motion for Leave: Before the Court is plaintiff Stephen Aguilar's motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint. (See ECF No. 70 .) Due to the pendency of plaintiff's appeal, the Court presently lacks jurisdiction to consider this motion. See Griggs v. Provident Consumer Disc. Co., 459 U.S. 56, 58, 103 S. Ct. 400, 402, 74 L. Ed. 2d 225 (1982) ("The filing of a notice of appeal is an event of jurisdictional significance -- it confers jurisdiction on the court of appeals and divests the district court of its control over those aspects of the case involved in the appeal.") Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is DENIED without prejudice. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on March 29, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 03/29/2017)
2017-04-0372MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint or, in the alternative, New Complaint by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Entered: 04/04/2017)
2017-04-04MINUTE ORDER denying 72 plaintiff's Motion for Leave to File a Corrected Supplemental Complaint: Before the Court is plaintiff Stephen Aguilar's motion for leave to file a "corrected" supplemental complaint. The Court previously denied his motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint, due to lack of jurisdiction. (See Minute Order, March 29, 2017 ("due to the pendency of plaintiff's appeal, the Court presently lacks jurisdiction to consider this motion. See Griggs v. Provident Consumer Disc. Co., 459 U.S. 56, 58, 103 S. Ct. 400, 402, 74 L. Ed. 2d 225 (1982) ("The filing of a notice of appeal is an event of jurisdictional significance -- it confers jurisdiction on the court of appeals and divests the district court of its control over those aspects of the case involved in the appeal.").) The Court similarly lacks jurisdiction over this motion. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's motion for leave to file a corrected supplemental complaint is DENIED without prejudice. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on April 4, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 04/04/2017)
2017-04-0573WITHDRAWN PURSUANT TO MINUTE ORDER FILED ON 05/01/2017.....MOTION to Stay by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) Modified on 5/1/2017 (jf). (Entered: 04/06/2017)
2017-04-2674MOTION to Withdraw 73 MOTION to Stay by STEPHEN AGUIAR (zrdj) (Entered: 04/27/2017)
2017-05-01MINUTE ORDER granting 74 plaintiff's Motion to Withdraw 73 plaintiff's MOTION to Stay. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on May 1, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 05/01/2017)
2017-08-2175MOTION for Leave to File Motion for Leave to File a Supplemental Complaint by STEPHEN AGUIAR (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Supplemental Complaint)(jf) (Entered: 08/24/2017)
2017-08-2976MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 75 MOTION for Leave to File by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 08/29/2017)
2017-09-05VACATED AS PER ORDER DATED 9/29/17....... MINUTE ORDER denying 75 Plaintiff's Motion for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint and finding as moot 76 Defendant's Motion for Extension of Time to File Response re Plaintiff's Motion for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint: Before the Court is plaintiff Stephen Aguilar's motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint. The Court has previously denied two similar motions due to its lack of jurisdiction while plaintiff's appeal is pending. Although the Court of Appeals issued a decision on August 4, 2017, remanding the case for further proceedings, this Court does not have jurisdiction until the mandate issues from the Court of Appeals. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint is DENIED without prejudice; and it is further ORDERED the defendant's motion for an extension of time to respond to plaintiff's motion is DENIED AS MOOT. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on September 5, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 09/05/2017)
2017-09-0677Supplemental Record on Appeal transmitted to US Court of Appeals re Minute Order denying Motion for Leave to File, Minute Order finding as moot Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply; USCA Case Number 16-5029. (znmw) (Entered: 09/06/2017)
2017-09-1878MOTION for Reconsideration re MINUTE ORDER filed on 09/05/2017, MOTION to Stay by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Entered: 09/20/2017)
2017-09-2679MANDATE of USCA as to 51 Notice of Appeal filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR ; USCA Case Number 16-5029. (Attachments: # 1 USCA Judgment)(td) (Entered: 09/26/2017)
2017-09-2980ORDER granting 78 plaintiff's Motion for Reconsideration, VACATING 9/5/2017 Minute Order and reinstating plaintiff's motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint, which is deemed filed as of today, 9/29/2017; ordering defendant to respond to motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint by 10/13/2017; appointing counsel as amicus curiae on behalf of plaintiff; ordering defendant to file renewed motion for summary judgment on the issues remanded by the Court of Appeals by 11/17/2017; and ordering amicus to respond to defendant's renewed motion for summary judgment by 12/15/2017. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on September 29, 2017. (AG) (Main Document 80 replaced on 9/29/2017) (jf). (Entered: 09/29/2017)
2017-09-29Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendant to respond to motion for leave to file a supplemental complaint by 10/13/2017. Defendant to file renewed motion for summary judgment on the issues remanded by the Court of Appeals by 11/17/2017. Amicus' response to renewed motion for summary judgment due by 12/15/2017. (jl) (Entered: 09/29/2017)
2017-09-2982ENTERED IN ERROR.....AMENDED COMPLAINT against DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION, EXECUTIVE OFFICE FOR U.S. ATTORNEYS, UNKNOWN U.S. DOJ GPS CONTRACTOR with Jury Demand filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR.(znmw) Modified on 10/3/2017 (znmw). (Entered: 10/02/2017)
2017-10-0281NOTICE of Appearance by Masha Godina Hansford on behalf of STEPHEN AGUIAR (Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 10/02/2017)
2017-10-03NOTICE OF CORRECTED DOCKET ENTRY: Docket Entry 82 Amended Complaint was entered in error; filed prematurely by the Clerk's Office. Please disregard. (znmw) (Entered: 10/03/2017)
2017-10-1383Memorandum in opposition to re 75 MOTION for Leave to File filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 10/13/2017)
2017-10-1684NOTICE to the Court by STEPHEN AGUIAR (jf) (Entered: 10/18/2017)
2017-10-2585REPLY to opposition to motion re 75 MOTION for Leave to File filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (td) (Entered: 10/26/2017)
2017-11-0986MOTION for Extension of Time to Move for Summary Judgment by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 11/09/2017)
2017-11-10MINUTE ORDER granting 86 defendant's consent Motion for Extension of Time: Upon consideration of Defendant's motion for an extension of time to file its motion for summary judgment, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED; it is further ORDERED that Defendant shall file a renewed motion for summary judgment on the issues remanded by the Court of Appeals on or before December 18, 2017; and it is further ORDERED that amicus shall respond to Defendant's renewed motion for summary judgment on or before January 26, 2018. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on November 10, 2017. (AG) (Entered: 11/10/2017)
2017-12-1887Renewed MOTION for Summary Judgment by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Statement of Facts, # 3 Declaration of Paul Roy, # 4 Third Supplemental Declaration of Katherine Myrick, # 5 Text of Proposed Order, # 6 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 12/18/2017)
2018-01-2688MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment by STEPHEN AGUIAR (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Statement of Facts, # 3 Text of Proposed Order)(Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 01/26/2018)
2018-01-2689Memorandum in opposition to re 87 MOTION for Summary Judgment filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (Attachments: # 1 Statement of Facts, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 01/26/2018)
2018-01-2990Consent MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 88 MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment , 87 MOTION for Summary Judgment by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 01/29/2018)
2018-01-29MINUTE ORDER granting 90 Consent Motion for Extension of Time to File Reply re 87 defendant's MOTION for Summary Judgment and Response and Reply re 88 amicus curiae's MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment : Upon consideration of Defendant's motion for an extension of time to file a reply in support of its motion for summary judgment and an opposition to the cross-motion for summary judgment by amicus curiae, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED; it is further ORDERED that Defendant shall file a reply in support of its motion for summary judgment and an opposition to the cross-motion for partial summary judgment by amicus curiae or before February 23, 2018; and it is further ORDERED that amicus curiae shall file a reply in support of her cross-motion for partial summary judgment on or before March 9, 2018. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on January 29, 2018. (AG) (Entered: 01/29/2018)
2018-01-30Set/Reset Deadlines: Response to Cross Motions due by 2/23/2018. Reply to Cross Motions due by 3/9/2018. Reply to Motion for Summary Judgment due by 2/23/2018. (gdf) (Entered: 01/30/2018)
2018-01-3091NOTICE of Appearance by Jena Neuscheler on behalf of STEPHEN AGUIAR (Neuscheler, Jena) (Entered: 01/30/2018)
2018-02-2392Consent MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 88 MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment , 87 MOTION for Summary Judgment by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 02/23/2018)
2018-02-26MINUTE ORDER granting 92 Consent Motion for Extension of Time: Upon consideration of Defendant's motion for an extension of time to file a reply in support of its motion for summary judgment and an opposition to the cross-motion for summary judgment by amica curiae, it is hereby ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED; it is further ORDERED that Defendant shall file a reply in support of its motion for summary judgment and an opposition to the cross-motion for summary judgment by amica curiae by March 9, 2018; and it is further ORDERED that amica curiae shall file a reply in support of her cross-motion for summary judgment by March 28, 2018. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on February 26, 2018. (AG) (Entered: 02/26/2018)
2018-03-0993Memorandum in opposition to re 88 MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of William Little (with exhibits), # 2 Response to Plaintiff's Statement of Facts as to Which There Is No Genuine Issue, # 3 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 03/09/2018)
2018-03-0994REPLY to opposition to motion re 87 MOTION for Summary Judgment filed by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of William Little (with exhibits), # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 03/09/2018)
2018-03-2895REPLY to opposition to motion re 88 MOTION for Partial Summary Judgment filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 03/28/2018)
2018-09-2496MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on 9/24/18. (lcesh2) (Entered: 09/24/2018)
2018-09-2497ORDER granting in part and denying in part 87 Defendant's Renewed Motion for Summary Judgment; and granting in part and denying in part 88 Plaintiff's Motion for Partial Summary Judgment. Defendant must make reasonable efforts within 25 days to contact the agent who signed and testified about the four subpoenas identified in Plaintiff's 4/28/14 FOIA request and no later than 10/22/18 shall file a declaration with the Court as to the result of this inquiry. It is further ordered that 75 Plaintiff's Motion for Leave to File a Supplemental Complaint is denied. See Order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on 9/24/18. (lcesh2) (Entered: 09/24/2018)
2018-09-24Set/Reset Deadlines: Declaration due by 10/22/2018. Response due by 11/14/2018. (gdf) (Entered: 09/25/2018)
2018-10-2298NOTICE of Filing Declaration by DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION re 97 Order on Motion for Summary Judgment,,, Order on Motion for Partial Summary Judgment,, (Attachments: # 1 Fifthe Declaration of Kathleen Myrick, # 2 Certificate of Service)(Walker, Johnny) (Entered: 10/22/2018)
2018-11-1499NOTICE of Amicus re: Court Order by STEPHEN AGUIAR (Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 11/14/2018)
2018-11-15100FINAL JUDGMENT in favor of defendant. It is hereby ordered that 87 defendant's renewed motion for summary judgment is granted and final judgment is entered in favor of defendant. The Clerk of Court shall serve plaintiff with a copy of this Judgment at his current address. See order for details. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on 11/15/18. (lcesh2) (Entered: 11/15/2018)
2018-12-03101NOTICE OF APPEAL as to 97 Order on Motion for Summary Judgment, Order on Motion for Partial Summary Judgment, 96 Memorandum & Opinion , 100 FINAL JUDGMENT by STEPHEN AGUIAR. Fee Status: No Fee Paid, IFP pending. Parties have been notified. (tth); Modified text on 12/11/2018 (tth). (Entered: 12/11/2018)
2018-12-03102MOTION for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (tth) (Entered: 12/11/2018)
2018-12-03103PRISONER TRUST FUND ACCOUNT STATEMENT for period of six months by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (tth) (Entered: 12/11/2018)
2018-12-11104Transmission of the Notice of Appeal, Order Appealed (Memorandum Opinion), and Docket Sheet to US Court of Appeals. Motion to proceed on appeal in forma pauperis has been filed. Another transmission will be forwarded when the motion has been decided re 101 Notice of Appeal. (tth) (Entered: 12/11/2018)
2018-12-11MINUTE ORDER granting 102 Motion for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis: It is hereby ORDERED that plaintiff's motion for leave to proceed in forma pauperis on appeal is GRANTED. The Clerk of Court shall transmit a copy of this Order to the Court of Appeals. Signed by Judge Ellen S. Huvelle on December 11, 2018. (AG) (Entered: 12/11/2018)
2018-12-12USCA Case Number 18-5356 for 101 Notice of Appeal, filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR. (zrdj) (Entered: 12/12/2018)
2018-12-13105Supplemental Record on Appeal transmitted to US Court of Appeals re Order on Motion for Leave to Appeal in forma pauperis, ;USCA Case Number 18-5356. (ztd) (Entered: 12/13/2018)
2019-02-07106NOTICE of Change of Address by Masha Godina Hansford (Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 02/07/2019)
2019-09-04107ORDER of USCA as to 101 Notice of Appeal, filed by STEPHEN AGUIAR ; USCA Case Number 18-5356. (zrdj) (Entered: 09/10/2019)
2020-02-27108NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL OF APPEARANCE as to STEPHEN AGUIAR. Attorney Jena Neuscheler terminated. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Masha G. Hansford)(Neuscheler, Jena) (Entered: 02/27/2020)
2020-03-26109NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL OF APPEARANCE as to STEPHEN AGUIAR. Attorney Masha Godina Hansford terminated. (Hansford, Masha) (Entered: 03/26/2020)
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