NORTON - The state appeals court has ruled against a man claiming former Building Inspector Joseph Clancy conspired with a home developer to steal his money five years ago.

Michael Needleman had claimed that in 2003 he hired developer Jeffrey Houde in 2003 to build his house, but that when Needleman secured bank financing, Houde provided a building permit that turned out to be forged.

Needleman said then-Assistant Building Inspector Paul DeBaggis told him that Houde said "Clancy allowed him to build homes without permits," according to court records.

In September 2008, a superior court judge ruled that Needleman offered no evidence proving DeBaggis' claim.

The judge dismissed Needleman's civil conspiracy and fraud claims against Clancy, and the appeals court affirmed the rulings last week. "We're certainly pleased," said Clancy's attorney, Gareth Notis. "Clearly the court found there was absolutely no evidence he (Clancy) was misappropriating funds from Mr. Needleman."

Needleman's attorney, Christopher Trombetta, didn't return calls for comment.