THE B. F. GOODRICH CO., APPELLANT, v. WOHLGEMUTH, APPELLEE, 117 Ohio App. 493

Summary

Appellee former employee was a scientist who worked for appellant corporation in various capacities in its pressure space suit department. Appellee left appellant and went to work as technical director for a competitor that was in the pressure space equipment field. Evidence established that appellee was in possession of appellant's trade secrets and that appellee made statements that he would use his knowledge to benefit his new employer. The court had no evidence that trade secrets were revealed; however, circumstances surrounding appellee's employment by his new employer and appellee's attitude were sufficient to satisfy the court that a substantial threat of disclosure existed. The court found that appellant's former employee was possessed of trade secrets known to him because of his employment with appellant; that disclosure of trade secrets to a competitive company was seriously threatened; and that, unless a restraining order was issued, appellant would suffer irreparable ...