Gabrielle Fischer vs. Jefferson A. Scinto, et al

Case Background

On August 12, 2020, Plaintiff Gabrielle Fischer filed a Breach of Contract in a property dispute lawsuit in the Connecticut State, Superior Court of Bridgeport Judicial District (Case number: FBT-CV20-6100675-S). Judge Kenneth Povodator Kidd presided over this case.

Cause

In January 1998, Gabriele Fischer, Jefferson Scinto, Maryanne Scinto, and Christian Scinto formed the 1703 Limited Partnership under the Connecticut Uniform Limited Partnership Act. The partnership aimed to manage and develop a commercial office property at 1730 Commerce Drive, Bridgeport, CT. Fischer held a 33% interest in the partnership and its assets, while the Defendants collectively owned the remaining 67%. Over time, disputes arose over management, financial obligations, and property use. Jefferson Scinto allegedly utilized portions of the property for personal and business purposes without proper lease agreements or payments. In June 2019, Scinto refused to pay accumulating rent, hindered property marketing efforts, and interfered with operations. These actions resulted in breaches of fiduciary duties and partnership agreements, escalating the property dispute.

Injuries

Fischer endured multiple injuries due to the Defendants’ actions. She suffered financial losses stemming from the diminished value of the property and her 33% partnership interest. She was unable to market or sell her share and faced potential loss of partnership assets. The Plaintiff also incurred attorney’s fees and litigation expenses while experiencing undue stress, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life.

Damages

The Plaintiff sustained significant damages, including the reduced value of her partnership interest and the associated property. Financial harm extended to legal costs, lost rental income, and marketing delays. Additionally, the breach of contract and property dispute caused emotional strain, impacting her daily life and well-being.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Gabrielle Fischer
    • Counsel for Plaintiff: Laurence V. Parnoff Jr.
  • Defendant(s): Jefferson A. Scinto | Maryanne Scinto | Frederick D. Paoletti Jr., Administrator of the Estate of Christian M. Scinto
    • Counsel for Defendants: Joseph P. Sargent | Andrew M. McPherson

Claims

Fischer accused the Defendants of breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and violations of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA). She sought monetary damages exceeding $15,000, punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees. The Plaintiff also requested equitable relief, including property inspections, halting wasteful practices, and restoring the premises.

Defense

The Defendants, including Jefferson and Christian Scinto, admitted basic facts regarding the formation of the partnership and its structure. They acknowledged AJC Management LLC served as the general partner, with Alan Fischer, Jefferson Scinto, and Christian Scinto as members. However, they denied that Jefferson or Christian Scinto held managerial roles in AJC. While admitting that Alan Fischer was hired as a property manager through Fischer Real Estate, Inc., they rejected claims that he had sole or exclusive authority.

The Defendants denied allegations of unpaid rent by Southport Contracting, Inc., and refuted claims concerning agreements over property sale proceeds. They also contested accusations of breaching partnership agreements, fiduciary duties, or participating in business misconduct. Additionally, the Defendants denied claims of unjust enrichment, interference with business expectancy, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and CUTPA violations. Regarding the Plaintiff’s injuries, they asserted insufficient information to form a belief and left the Plaintiff to prove her claims. Overall, the Defendants disputed the substantive allegations and maintained their actions complied with the partnership agreements and relevant laws.

Jury Verdict

On January 17, 2025, the jury unanimously ruled in favor of Jefferson Scinto and against Alan Fischer. They awarded Scinto $76,000 in compensatory damages. Additionally, the jury granted $154,167.20 in punitive damages, totaling $230,167.20. This outcome underscored the contentious nature of the property dispute and breach of contract claims, as well as the central role of unfair trade practices in the litigation.

Court Documents:

Complaint

Answer

Jury Verdict