Contractor claims employee owes thousands for using company credit card

A Jefferson County business has filed suit against one of its former employees, alleging he owes thousands of dollars to the company.

Lott Contractors claims defendant John Burns used a company credit card to make numerous, unauthorized purchases.

In addition, Lott made several advances to Burns, which should have been repaid from his paychecks, according to the complaint filed July 29 in Jefferson County District Court.

"At the time of his termination, the balance of Mr. Burns' personal credit card charges and monetary advances was $12,918.12," the suit states. "A total of $6,541.34 was withheld from Mr. Burns final paychecks as partial payment for his outstanding balance."

Burns still owes Lott the remaining $6,376.78 that was not withheld from his paychecks, the complaint says.

In addition to the more than $6,000 Burns owes, he also owes $54,949 for an installment note, which Burns should have repaid within 30 days of his May 3 termination, Lott claims.

Lott alleges breach of contract and unjust enrichment against Burns.

In addition to the money it says it is owed, Lott is seeking attorneys' fees, pre- and post-judgment interest at the highest legal rate and other relief to which he may be entitled.

Christopher A. McKinney and Julia T. Matheny of Orgain, Bell and Tucker in Beaumont will be representing the plaintiff.

The case has been assigned to Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th Ditrict Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: D187-418.