-Former employees liable for damages and permanently enjoined-

Sombra was awarded compensatory and punitive damages, and the defendants were permanently enjoined and restrained from (1) selling their branded product; (2) making any product using the Sombra formula and process; or (3) disclosing the formula and process to any person or entity. Also permanently enjoined were Pedro Moreno Sr., owner of Southwest Respiratory, based here, and his son Pedro Moreno, Jr., both of which were identified during court proceedings as investors in Alivia. 

“This finding reinforces my faith in the American judicial system”, stated Alfredo Cortazar, president of Sombra and a chemical engineer. “My many years of personal sacrifice developing and growing a market for this product will not be given away to these former trusted employees”, he added. Cortazar, who worked for years developing and refining the formula and process, immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico forty years ago to pursue the American dream, living many years in abject poverty before making a name for himself and his company. According to Sombra's attorney, Charles A. Armgardt, of the Modrall Sperling firm based here: “Through this long three-year litigation process, Sombra has shown a strong will and determination to protect its trade secrets and vigorously pursue anyone who might try to misappropriate those secrets.”

The Sombra-brand natural pain relieving gel is used by and sold through professionals such as chiropractors, massage therapists, and physical therapists. Sore No More is sold direct and through natural food stores.

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About Sombra Cosmetics Inc.: Sombra, a privately held manufacturer of natural gels, lotions, cremes, and cosmetics, is registered with the FDA and sells its products worldwide. The company also provides private-label contract manufacturing services to a range of clients.