Updated: Oliva Cigar Co. v. Leccia

Earlier this week the chatter regarding Sam Leccia and the Oliva legal battle picked up. Earlier today, the tensions between Oliva and their former employee hit an all-time high with Sam confirming the rumors that suggested he would not be allowed into the IPCPR show because of a court ruling. This led to a generally anti-Oliva barrage of comments regarding the most recent development in the fight between Sam Leccia and Oliva. In response to these comments, José Oliva wrote a statement regarding the situation. All that and some interesting details about earlier events after the jump.

The Timeline

Earlier today, Sam posted the following on his Facebook:

I am saddened to announce that my Debut is on hold. I have been barred from attending the Cigar Show by court order. I will however, be vigorously pursuing Oliva’s failure to fulfill it’s contractual obligations to me and my family. I have faith in the legal system and I will see you all as soon as possible. Thank You all, from the bottom of my heart, for your continued support.

José Oliva issued this statement earlier in the evening from Las Vegas:

I am always amazed by how quickly people will draw conclusions with little more than marginal information.
Prudence prevents me from getting into details about this situation. I will however offer a few items for consideration.
The Oliva Cigar Co is not a big conglomerate, it is a small family owned business. The consistency of actions by the family and the company throughout the years should carry some weight when hasty generalizations are being made.
For years Oliva has provided world class cigars at reasonable prices, even when the economy allowed for gouging. We have sought to bring new and innovative products to the genuine aficionado and to always advance our craft.
Furthermore, the actual facts of the matter are not being sought by those eager to draw conclusions.
Consider that a judge heard facts that you have not and ruled accordingly. Consider also that during the course of future trials many more facts will be divulged.
The life’s work of an honorable family and company should be considered. However, if that is not compelling enough, those who have taken an interest in this dispute should follow the litigation closely. Some patience may save you some “egg on the face” as well as surprise you.