Masonry supplier seeks payment of debt

A material supply company has filed suit against a Groves man, alleging he did not pay it for work it performed.

Morrell Masonry Supply claims defendant Ralph R. May Jr., who owns property at 3301 W. Parkway St. in Groves, hired J&E Enterprises as a general contractor to improve his property. In turn, J&E used materials from Morrell in the improvements, according to the complaint filed Aug. 9 in Jefferson County District Court.

However, J&E failed to pay for the materials Morrell supplied it, the suit states.

Morrell says May conspired with J&E to defraud it out of money it is owed.

"Defendant currently owes Plaintiff the minimum principal $1,182.48, plus attorney's fees, Court costs, and statutory interest of 1.5 percent per month on any unpaid principal balance from May 9, 2009, until the entire amount is paid in full," the complaint says.

Following its failure to receive payment, Morrell filed a mechanic's and materialman's lien against the property, the complaint says.

In its complaint, Morrell is seeking a foreclosure on its lien, actual damages, pre-judgment interest of 1.5 percent per month, attorney's fees and other relief the court deems just.

Karalynn C. Cromeens of The Cromeens Law Firm in Houston will be representing it.

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

Jefferson County District Court case number: D187-512.