Life Spine, a company specializing in spinal surgery innovations, has filed a lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Ill., against its former CEO, Michael Butler.

The company alleges that Butler wrongfully diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars from Life Spine through a sham importer entity he controlled and funded with company resources. It also alleges he directed the company to pay his personal expenses in amounts that likely surpassed $1 million.

This included vacations, jewelry, custom golf clubs, and a Porsche for his spouse. Butler was also accused of retaining possession of highly sensitive intellectual property after his termination.

The complaint further alleges Butler interfered with Life Spine’s critical overseas manufacturing relationships and attempted to sabotage strategic business transactions by sharing information that wasn’t public.

“Life Spine takes seriously its duty to protect its employees, partners, and customers from any misconduct that threatens our operations,” said a company spokesperson.

The lawsuit is pending in the Chancery Division of the Cook County Circuit Court in Case No. 2025 CH 06287. Life Spine is represented by Michael T. Layden, David Jorgensen, and Jon Spanbauer of Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres LLC.

In April, the company promoted chief operating officer Richard Mueller to president and CEO.