Company says former salesman sold to its customers

A precious metal company has filed suit against its former salesman, alleging he sold crystals to its customers after he left the company.

International Precious Metals filed a lawsuit Sept. 15 in Jefferson County District Court against Montgomery Chandler and Michael Brown.

In its complaint, International alleges Brown had been working for the company as a salesman. In agreeing to work for the company, Brown had agreed to refrain from selling items to its customers if he quit the job, according to the complaint.

However, after Brown quit International July 28, he began working for defendant Montgomery Chandler and contacted an International customer in an attempt to sell coins to them.

International alleges breach of contract against Brown and says he violated the Texas Uniform Trade Secrets Act.

In its complaint, International seeks actual damages, plus permanent injunctive relief that would prevent Brown from contacting its customers in an attempt to sell items.

Attorney Chris M. Portner, of Portner and Bond in Beaumont, will represent International.

Jefferson County District Court case number: A196-113