Dick’s Sporting Goods employees sue over alleged exposure to toxic mold

GRETNA – Two former employees of a local sporting goods store claim they were sickened after being exposed to toxic mold for a prolonged period of time.

Michelle C. Wilcox and Kokenia M. Sam filed suit against Dick’s Sporting Goods Inc., General Growth Properties Inc. and their insurers in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 10.

Wilcox and Sam allege that they were employed by the Dick’s Sporting Goods located in the Oakwood Mall at 197 Westbank Expressway in Gretna. The plaintiffs contend that the building housing their workplace was damaged and water leaked into the roof prior to the store’s grand opening in September 2013 and that Dck’s Sporting Goods did not take appropriate measures to prevent water leakage and mold development. As a result, Wilcox and Sam assert that during their employment with Dick’s Sporting Goods they were unknowingly exposed to hazardous levels of mold that was found throughout the store.

The plaintiffs claim that due to their exposure to toxic mold they missed significant time from work and had to undergo medical treatments and hospitalization.

The defendant is accused of failing to report building damage to owner, failing to properly maintain the store, failing to make necessary repairs, failing to keep a store in safe condition, failing to take necessary action to avoid personal injuries, failing to furnish reasonably safe employment for employees and failing to properly and promptly inform employees of dangerous work conditions.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, physical pin and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life and lost wages.

Wilcox and Sam are represented by attorney David C. Bernard of Metairie.

The case has been assigned to Division O Judge Ross P. LaDart.

Case no. 742-250.