More than 150 'water cases' on file in Boone County

MADISON -- More than 150 so-called "water cases" had been filed in Boone Circuit Court by mid-August against Massey Energy Co. and five subsidiaries.

Seth-Prenter area residents complain, "As a result of the defendants' mining operations, the plaintiffs' well water has been contaminated and is no longer safe to drink or use for household purposes."

All cases name A.T. Massey Coal Co., Inc.; Elk Run Coal Co., Inc.; Black Castle Mining Co., Independence Coal Co. and Omar Mining Co. with Massey Energy as defendants.

Individuals and families generally seek judgment against the six defendants jointly and severally for damages and injuries "proximately caused by their unlawful, wrongful and negligent conduct ..."

Judge William S. Thompson's Court tentatively expects to be ready for jury trial in October 2011.