According to the Stockton Record, the city suspended the cash payouts to departing employees even though police officers took their jobs with the understanding they were earning the cash payouts when their work was done.
"People are entitled to this," said attorney David E. Mastagni, who represents the police union. "Its already earned compensation." Mastagni said city officials threaten bankruptcy as a bullying tactic anytime they do not get their way. A ruling against Stockton would not be as damaging as the city contends, he said.
