Fla. Federal Judge Dismisses ACE Hardware’s Cross-Claims Against W.M. Barr in Benzene Exposure Case

FT. MYERS, Fla. –– A Florida federal judge has dismissed without prejudice ACE Hardware’s cross-claims against W.M. Barr & Company Inc. in a benzene exposure action.

On Sept. 5, Judge John E. Steele of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida noted that parties have agreed to a dismissal of all cross-claims for indemnification asserted by ACE against Barr.

Plaintiff Gaetana Sorvillo alleges that her use of paint removers, wood finishes and other products while working as an antiques refinisher in the 1990s exposed her to benzene. Sorvillo said she developed leukemia as a result of the …