1. The Trial Has Taken Place
A non-jury bench trial was held over two days on June 8 and June 9, 2026, before Judge Patrick Smith. Both sides presented their evidence, and multiple items were officially marked as court exhibits.
2. Post-Trial Briefs Have Been Submitted
Following the trial, the defense (City of Des Moines) asked the court for permission to submit written arguments. Judge Smith granted the request and set a deadline of July 1, 2026.
- On July 1, 2026, the plaintiffs' attorney (James Craig Larew) filed the Plaintiffs' Post-Trial Brief.
- On the same day, the defense attorney (Luke Michael DeSmet) filed the Defendant's Post-Trial Brief.
3. Current Standing
As of the latest date on the printout (August 17, 2026), no new orders or final judgments have been entered since the briefs were submitted. The case is fully submitted, meaning the judge is currently reviewing all the trial evidence and post-trial arguments to write the final ruling.
If you want, I can help you summarize the history of the case leading up to the trial, or explain what specific laws and exhibits (like the Des Moines Municipal Code or Iowa Code) were brought up during the June trial. Let me know how you would like to proceed!
