CA: `Brockovich' movie inspires people to file lawsuit against PG&E over water contamination

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Posted at 9:05 p.m. PDT Thursday, October 26, 2000

`Brockovich' movie inspires people to file lawsuit against PG&E over water contamination LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Thirty-nine residents of three desert towns have filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit against Pacific Gas and Electric Co., alleging the utility contaminated groundwater with chromium-6 and other harmful chemicals.

Many of the residents of Hinkley, Topock and Kettleman said they were unaware of the contamination until after the movie ``Erin Brockovich'' was released.

The film, starring Julia Roberts and Albert Finney, tells the true story of how Brockovich helped more than 600 Hinkley residents win $333 million from PG&E. Hinkley is 90 miles northeast of Los Angeles.

Edward Masry, Brockovich's boss and the attorney who represented the plaintiffs in the original lawsuit, also represents the residents in the current action.

The lawsuit alleges that the utility used a chromium-based lubricant in its compressor stations and dumped contaminated wastewater into unlined ponds and wells.

The plaintiffs claim PG&E should have known it was exposing residents to dangerous contaminants and that the company tried to cover up its actions.

The residents are claiming compensation for medical, funeral and burial expenses, civil penalties and attorney costs, plus unspecified punitive, general and special damages.

Twelve of the plaintiffs claim a loss of companionship and five claim wrongful death.

A PG&E spokesman said Thursday that company officials had not seen the lawsuit and had no comment.http://www0.mercurycenter.com/breaking/docs/059521.htm

-- Carl Jenkins (Somewherepress@aol.com), October 27, 2000


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