Harris County Jury Awards $150,000 in Civil Theft Case

In February 2012, a plaintiff individual allegedly formed an automobile repair company, CNC Industries LLC, in Harris County with a business partner. The plaintiff claimed a 50/50 ownership agreement and an initial investment of $40,000. In 2014, the plaintiff reportedly discovered that the business partner had brought in another investor who also claimed part ownership and invested $50,000. The plaintiff alleged that the business partner subsequently refused requests to review company business records, leading to a lawsuit.

The plaintiff sued the business partner for breach of contract, fraud, theft, and conspiracy. The plaintiff also sued a second defendant, alleging she was fraudulently added as an owner due to a romantic relationship with the business partner, asserting claims of conspiracy and fraud. The plaintiff claimed no profits were distributed and alleged business records indicated the business partner billed personal expenses to the LLC and withdrew $88,000 from company accounts. Both defendants denied the allegations, with the business partner specifically denying fraud in their business relationship. After a two-day trial in Harris County, a jury deliberated for two hours. The jury found for the plaintiff on the civil theft claim under the Texas Liability Act and awarded $150,000.