Three former employees of the Monticello Street Department have filed a lawsuit against Monticello Mayor Jeffrey Edwards, alleging their employment was terminated because of political reasons.

In a suit filed in federal court in London on Thursday, January 27, Tim Craig, Homer Daniels and Dustin Catron allege they were discharged from their jobs because they had actively supported former Mayor Kenneth Catron during the 2010 election. The suit names Edwards, who defeated Catron in the November election, in his official capacity as mayor and also individually.

The plaintiffs are seeking punitive damages in the amount of $3 million, restoration of lost benefits, and reinstatement to their previous positions. They are represented by Ned Pillersdorf of Prestonsburg.

All three of the plaintiffs allege in the suit that they spoke with Edwards about four weeks prior to the November 2010 election, at a Republican rally that was held at Memorial Park. Craig, who served as Street Administrator prior to January, alleges that Edwards told him “if you don’t help the right side you will be looking for another job.”

In another conversation that same day, the suit states that Daniels was approached by Edwards who asked him who he was supporting in the mayoral race. Daniels said he told Edwards he was supporting the incumbent Catron. Daniels alleges that he was then told “if you want to save your job you better help me.”

The suit states, “The plaintiffs allege the statements made by the defendant Edwards are an express threat of political retaliation and the plaintiffs allege that they were in fact retaliated against and lost their employment.”

When reached for comment regarding the lawsuit, Edwards stated, “I have yet to be served with any lawsuit. However, the allegations that have been reported in the news media are completely false. Based on legal counsel I will not comment any further at this time.”

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One of the six people charged in connection with the May 2009 death of a Wayne County toddler has entered a plea agreement in the case.

On Tuesday, January 25, Wesley Bell pled guilty to manufacturing methamphetamine, one of four charges that were filed against him in the death of 20-month-old Kayden Daniels.

The toddler died after he drank drain cleaner that officials allege was used to make methamphetamine.

Bell was among those arrested and indicted following the boy’s death.

He was originally indicted for controlled substance endangerment to a child, engaging in an organized crime syndicate, manufacturing methamphetamine and persistent felony offender.

He appeared in Wayne Circuit Court last week and entered the plea to the manufacturing methamphetamine charge.

The other three charges will be dismissed under the plea agreement.

The Commonwealth has recommended a one year sentence for Bell on the charge.

According to records at the Wayne County Detention Center, Bell has served a total of 230 days.

Formal sentencing for Bell has been set for February 28 in Wayne Circuit Court.

The trial for the other five defendants in this case, including the toddler’s father Bryan Daniels, has been continued until September 14.