By Michael Braga

MANATEE COUNTY - Contact lens manufacturer Benz Research has filed a lawsuit against a former employee, claiming that he stole trade secrets with the intent of selling them to competitors.

"The misappropriation of Benz Research's trade secrets by Sturgis were done willfully, maliciously and for the purpose of injuring Benz Research," the lawsuit filed in circuit court in Manatee County says. "Benz Research asks that this court award it actual damages and any unjust enrichment caused by Sturgis's misappropriation."

The problem is that as an IT specialist, Sturgis was one of only two employees on staff who had access to the company's most sensitive information.

To continue reading this interesting article from the HeraldTribune, click here.