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alarm apparatus underneath a gem display case, and his father for interference with an officer. The complaint alleges false arrest, malicious prosecution, and other improprieties, and seeks compensatory and punitive damages. Initially, the Department of Justice undertook representation of all defendants, but later determined that the guard should have the benefit of independent counsel. Accordingly, the guard has now retained a private attorney at the expense of the Department of Justice. The case is still in its preliminary stages.

2. [[underlined]] Winston [[/underlined]] v. [[underlined]] Smithsonian Science Information Exchange [[/underlined]]

As previously reported, this suit was filed in the U. S. District Court for the District of Columbia by four former SSIE employees, alleging that the SSIE and President Hersey have engaged in discriminatory employment practices. On March 25, 1977, the Court denied plaintiffs' motion for certification as a class action; it is not known whether this decision will be appealed. The named plaintiff has been allowed to proceed with his claim, and a pretrial conference will be held in the near future.

3. [[underlined]] Scott [[/underlined]] v. [[underlined]] Ripley [[/underlined]]

This suit, alleging racial discrimination, went to trial on April 6, 1977, in the D. C. District Court. The Court, finding no discrimination, dismissed the complaint. It is not known whether plaintiff will appeal this decision.