Sawmill worker sues for overtime wages

LUFKIN - A sawmill worker has filed a lawsuit against his employer claiming he was paid on a per piece basis and not paid an overtime rate for hours worked over more than 40 per week. 

Randy Paupke, individually and on behalf of similarly situated individuals, filed suit against Cary S. Goss and Southern Hardwood Co. on June 25 in the Eastern District of Texas, Lufkin Division.

Paupke worked for the defendants at their hardwood sawmill near Zavalla. The lawsuit is to include any workers who were paid on a per piece basis.

The defendant is accused of failing to pay minimum wages and overtime compensation as required by the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The plaintiff is seeking an award of damages for unpaid wages, interest, attorney’s fees, and court costs.

Paupke is represented by Lufkin attorney Charles R. Dendy. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Ron Clark is assigned to the case.

Case No. 9:13-cv-00196