Former employees of janitorial service sued for allegedly violating non-compete clause

GRETNA – A janitorial service is suing two of its former workers for allegedly violating a non-compete clause after they went to work for a competing company.

Superior Hospitality Systems, Inc. filed suit against American International Management, LLC, Ronald Warren Byland and Fany M. Hernandez in the 24th Judicial District Court on Nov. 16. Superior Hospitality Systems, Inc. claims Byland violated his contract by becoming a supervisor with a competing janitorial service within three years following the termination of his employment. In addition, the plaintiff alleges that Byland took a number of items with him when he left including an iPad 3, three computer hard drives, a briefcase, a tool set and Superior Hospitality Systems, Inc. contracts and proposals without their consent. Hernandez similarly is thought to have violated the non-compete clause in her contract by soliciting orders from customers of  Superior Hospitality Systems, Inc. before the grace period was over following the termination of her employment from the company.

The defendants are accused of breach of contract.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for irreparable injury, prohibition of the defendants soliciting orders from the plaintiff’s customers and enforcement of the non-compete clauses.

Superior Hospitality Systems, Inc. is represented by Daniel L. Hoychick of Houma-based Watkins, Walker & Erocht.

The case has been assigned to Division E Judge John J. Molaison.

Case no. 721-225.