Michael Josephson
Dissatisfied with his co-worker's job performance, Gary Cameron, an employee of Cameron Plumbing, walloped Thomas Boudreaux, landing a damaging blow to Boudreaux's jaw.
The injured and disgruntled Boudreaux filed a personal injury lawsuit against Cameron Plumbing on Oct. 22 in the Jefferson County District Court, claiming the company negligently hired an incompetent plumber who is prone to violence.
According to the plaintiff's original petition, on March 1, 2007, Boudreaux was performing an inspection, when he was attacked by Gary Cameron. The attack took place because Cameron "was upset and dissatisfied with the inspection results."
"Defendant knew that Cameron was dangerous and prone to attack, but nevertheless continued to employ him," the suit said. "As a result of the attack, plaintiff sustained significant injuries to his jaw and incurred extensive medical expenses. Accordingly, plaintiff has sued defendant for negligent supervision, hiring, training and retention."
In his suit, Boudreaux claims Cameron Plumbing owed him the following duties:
-The duty to use ordinary care in determining whether an employee is competent enough to be hired;
-The duty to use ordinary care to terminate employees who have a dangerous propensity to assault others, instigate fights and cause problems during the course and scope of their employment;
-The duty to exercise reasonable care to protect the general public from dangerous employees; and
-And the duty to supervise employees with known violent tendencies.
The suit does not state if Gary Cameron is a relative of the owners of Cameron Plumbing.
Boudreaux is suing for past and future medical expenses, physical pain, lost wages, mental anguish and impairment, the suit said.
He is demanding a trial by jury and is represented by attorney Michael Josephson of the Fibich, Hampton & Leebron law firm in Houston.
Judge Bob Wortham, 58th Judicial District, will preside over the case.
Case No. A180-569