Judge Dismisses Silica Case, Requires Plaintiff to Clarify Counts in Amended Complaint

FORT MYERS, Fla. - A Florida jeweler who sued several defendants after allegedly suffering an occupational silica-related injury has been given 30 days to amend his complaint after a federal judge found that his first amended complaint was 'confusing.' Hughes v. American Tripoli, Inc., et al., No. 04-485 (M.D. Fla.).

Judge John E. Steele of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida said in his May 2 opinion that to proceed with his claims, plaintiff Jack Hughes must file a second amended complaint that alleges separate and clear counts against each defendant.

'The new complaint must be …