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WEST VIRGINIA RECORD

Friday, April 19, 2024

Wyoming County landowners accuse mining operators of property damage

Lawsuits

PINEVILLE — A Wyoming County couple and their daughter are suing U.S. Steel and mining operators, alleging trespassing, negligence and private nuisance.

Tom Cook, Diana Cook and Lori Graham filed a complaint in Wyoming Circuit Court against U.S. Steel LLC, Pinnacle Mining Company LLC and Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., alleging failure to perform post-mining inspections.

According to the complaint, on Sept. 24, 2003, the Cooks permitted the defendants to mine a block of coal in close proximity underneath their property in Wyoming County. The suit says as a result of the defendants' breach of contract, the plaintiffs have suffered substantial property damage, emotional distress and litigation expenses. 

The plaintiffs allege the defendants failed to notify them when they had mined less than 2,700 feet from their property and failed to maintain the road leading to their property.

The Cooks and Graham seek trial by jury, compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees, costs, interest and all other just and proper relief. They are represented by attorney Adam D. Taylor of Taylor and Hinkle, Attorneys at Law Inc. in Beckley.

Wyoming Circuit Court case number 18-C-87

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