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Coleman (P) was a special investigator authorized to investigate police corruption. His investigation led to the mayor's office, and suddenly P was summarily fired. P sued the Village of Robbins, its mayor, and the police chief (D). D's answer denied the allegations, but D were willfully delinquent during the discovery phase, and the judge imposed default as to liability as the sanction. The trial was as to damages, and the jury gave the verdict to P for $500,000 in compensatory and punitive damages. D made motions to set aside the verdict on grounds of res judicata, the allegations are insufficient to state a claim upon which relief may be granted, and P had no property or liberty interest in his employment.

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