BELLEVILLE — A man claims he suffered myelodysplastic syndrome from benzene exposure.
Robert Yates and LaNorris Yates filed a complaint Dec. 14 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Monsanto Company, et al, alleging they negligently caused the release of dangerous cancer-causing chemicals into the environment.
According to the complaint, Robert Yates claims he was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome on Jan. 9, 2017 due to exposure, inhalation and ingestion of benzene fumes emanating from the defendants benzene and benzene-containing materials and products.
Robert Yates alleges he has sustained complications from chemotherapy, pain and suffering, mental anguish and a shortened life expectancy.
LaNorris Yates claims she has suffered the loss of service, society and companionship of her husband.
The plaintiffs allege the defendants negligently released toxic chemicals, including benzene-containing products, and polluted the water and soil throughout the areas around Sauget, East St. Louis and the village of Cahokia.
The Yateses seek trial by jury, compensatory damages of more than $50,000, plus interest, court costs and all further appropriate relief. They are represented by attorneys Christopher W. Dysart and David P. Franklin of The Dysart Law Firm PC in Chesterfield, Missouri, and by Richard Saville of Saville Law Firm LLC in St. Louis.
St. Clair County Circuit Court Case number 18-L-810