Man sues over alleged asbestos exposure

A former crane operator is suing over claims repeated exposure to asbestos resulted in mesothelioma.

James Clifford Perry filed an asbestos litigation complaint Oct. 30 in the Cook County Circuit Court against A.W. Chesterton Co. and others.

According to the suit, Perry worked in various capacities, including as a crane operator, from 1953 until 1995, during which time he claims he was exposed to asbestos containing products.

Perry contends the defendants were negligent and knew or should have known that asbestos could cause injury or death. On Aug. 28, Perry learned he had developed mesothelioma as a result of the asbestos exposure, according to the complaint.

The plaintiff is seeking damages and is being represented by attorney David O. Barrett of Cooney & Conway.

Cook County Circuit Court Case No. 2013L011955.

This is a report on a civil lawsuit filed at the Cook County Courthouse. The details in this report come from an original complaint filed by a plaintiff. Please note that a complaint represents an accusation by a private individual, not the government. It is not an indication of guilt, and it represents only one side of the story.