Monongalia woman sues couple for injuries

MORGANTOWN —- A Monongalia County woman is suing a couple she leased her home from after she fell in a trench and was injured.

On March 4, 2008, John and Beth Ann France began leasing a home to Danielle Owens in Cale Road, according to a complaint filed April 30 in Monongalia Circuit Court.

Owens claims between April 22 and April 23, 2008, the defendants caused trenches to be dug across the yard and driveway, thereby impeding access to the house.

The trenches were at a minimum of at least one foot wide and several feet deep and left uncovered, according to the suit.

As a result of the trenches, Owens claims she was unable to drive her vehicle to the house and instead, had to park in the driveway between the road and the trenches.

On May 3, 2008, Owens contacted the Frances and requested the trenches be covered, but they did not cover them, according to the suit.

On May 11, 2008, Owens claims she fell into an uncovered trench while carrying groceries from her car and attempting to step across the trench, causing injuries. She claims the defendants were negligent in not covering the trenches.

Owens is seeking damages in an amount in excess of $20,000. She is being represented by Frank R. Fleming III.

Monongalia Circuit Court case number: 10-C-298