ST. LOUIS — Individuals in Peru are suing the owners and operators of the La Oroya Metallurgical Complex, alleging negligence and failure to warn.
Shirley Rosario Baldeon Leiva, Juan Carlos Cano Fernandez, Sadit Canon Fernandez, et al. filed a complaint on Feb. 16 in the St. Louis Circuit Court against Ira L. Rennert as Trustee and Beneficiary of the Ira Leon Rennet Revocable Trust, et al. alleging that the defendants allowed and failed to remove or remediate lead and other hazardous substances in the La Oroya region for their own financial benefit.
According to the complaint, the plaintiffs allege that they were minors at the time of their initial exposure to the lead and other toxic substances that were being exposed by defendants in relation to their ownership and operation of the La Oroya Complex.
The suit alleges that pollutants emitted from the La Oroya Complex damage the circulatory and respiratory systems, and likely lead to lung cancer.
As a result, the plaintiffs claim they suffered psychological injuries, behavioral and learning impairments, and other permanent disabilities.
The plaintiffs allege the defendants failed to warn individuals of the release of the toxic metals and gases, and other toxic substances into the environment and community surrounding the La Oroya Complex; and the dangers of inhaling or ingesting these toxic metals.
The plaintiffs request a trial by jury; and seek judgment for damages in an amount in excess of $25,000, plus punitive damages, costs, expenses, pre- and post-judgment interest, and such further relief as the court deems appropriate. They are represented by Jerome J. Schlichter, Roger C. Denton, Kristine K. Kraft, Elizabeth M. Wilkins and Tara Rocque of Schlichter, Bogard & Denton in St. Louis.
St. Louis Circuit Court case number 1822-CC00345