Ditch digging companies in trial

In February 2008, the Southeast Texas Record reported on as suit filed by Ricky Lightfoot, who claimed two companies trespassed and dug a drainage ditch on his property without permission.

Now Kelly Family Investments and Allied Electrical Contractors will answer Lightfoot's allegations in court as jury selection began on Monday, June 14, in the trial of Lightfoot vs. Allied et al.

Court papers show that Lightfoot owns the property known as Washington Village Parkway in Beaumont. He claims KFI and Allied "unlawfully trespassed and dug a drainage ditch on his property without his permission."

Lightfoot will attempt to convince jurors that he has suffered serious and substantial damage, and ask them to order the defendants to fill the drainage ditch with dirt or with pipe and covered with dirt.

"Plaintiff has incurred costs and expenses in the prosecution of this suit, and the Defendants should reimburse Plaintiff for the costs and expenses incurred in this matter," court papers say. "Plaintiff should be entitled to recover exemplary ... and actual damages."

Lightfoot is represented by Chris Portner, attorney for the Reaud, Morgan & Quinn law firm.

The defendants are represented by attorney Daniel Clayton.

Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th Judicial District, is presiding over the trial.

Case No. D181-168