On Jan. 20, a jury awarded $400,000 to nine landowners who alleged a company trespassed on their property and contaminated it. For more than 20 years, the landowners were involved in a suit with a couple over the title to 375 acres near Delmita. While the suit was pending, the couple signed an agreement with Dewey Bellows Operating Co. that allowed the company to operate a saltwater disposal well on the property. In 2007, a court of appeals upheld a lower court ruling that the plaintiffs were the rightful holders of the title. The plaintiffs then filed suit against Dewey Bellows, alleging the company’s prior agreement was invalid. The plaintiffs claimed that Dewey Bellows continued operations on the land without their permission and allowed saltwater and oil to contaminate it. They sought $78 million in damages. Dewey Bellows argued it was unaware the title to the land was contested and contended it held a legitimate lease. It also denied its actions caused any contamination.
Rodriguez, et al. v. Dewey Bellows Operating Co. Ltd., No. DC-07-391
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