8th Cir.

David Mears v. Tyson Poultry, Inc.; Tyson Foods, Inc

June 17, 2026 ·25-2383 ·Panel Decision · By Aisha Johnson

The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit affirmed a district court's grant of summary judgment in an employment discrimination case. The appellate panel concluded that the lower court's decision was proper after reviewing the record and arguments.

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Background

David Mears appealed an adverse grant of summary judgment in a removed employment discrimination action against Tyson Poultry, Inc. and Tyson Foods, Inc. The case originated in the United States District Court for the Western District of Arkansas.

The court’s reasoning

The panel conducted a de novo review of the district court’s grant of summary judgment. After careful review of the record and the parties’ arguments, the court concluded that the grant of summary judgment was proper.

What it means going forward

The affirmation of the summary judgment means the employment discrimination claims brought by David Mears were dismissed without a trial.