Story contained inaccuracies

I am writing to correct what I believe is misinformation that was contained in your newspaper story that appeared on Aug. 9.

This law firm represents approximately 90 residents of the Allen area who we contend have been damaged by the coal mining activities of Grizzly Mining and Frasure Creek Processing. The newspaper article concerning the motion for change of venue may give the incorrect impression that a change of venue was sought by this law firm on behalf of our clients.

The article incorrectly references the fact that Bonnie and Richard Crisp and 90 other “defendants” were seeking a change of venue. Actually, the 90 individuals I represent are the plaintiffs, or the individuals who filed the lawsuit. On behalf of my clients, we were opposed to the change of venue motion.

The motion for change of venue was actually filed by attorney Stephen Cawood, of Pineville, on behalf of defendant Grizzly Mining. The newspaper article includes quotations from the motion for change of venue that were attributed to myself. Once again, I did not file the motion for change of venue. The arguments in favor of the change of venue were made by attorney Stephen Cawood, on behalf of the defendant Grizzly Mining.

The story is correct that Judge Danny Caudill did deny the motion for change of venue, a ruling that this law firm on behalf of the 90 residents urged him to make. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to clarify these issues.