Telecommunication giant AT&T filed a civil suit in federal court Aug. 8, against McKendree College in Lebanon for unpaid phone bills.
According to the complaint, on Aug. 4, 2005, McKendree acknowledged that, due to third party callers gaining unauthorized access to its onsite telecommunications equipment and thereby its outgoing telephone lines, $48,040.08 in charges accrued over the AT&T's network between April 1, 2005 and April 28, 2005.
"AT&T Tariff F.C.C. No. 1 § 2.4 and Business Communications Services Agreement §4(a) makes Defendant responsible for the payment of bills for telecommunication calls and services," the complaint states.
AT&T claims the college has refused to make the payment even though several demands for the total amount due have been sent.
AT&T, represented by Randall Grady of Clayton, is seeking $48,040.08, plus 1.5% interest per month until the balance is paid in full, plus all court costs and attorneys' fees.
The case has been assigned to District Judge David Herndon.