Rickie Thomas
BENTON – Washington Park Mayor Rickie Thomas and village trustees improperly blocked the opening of a liquor store, St. Clair County resident Timothy West alleges in U.S. district court.
He sued Thomas and all six trustees on Jan. 19, alleging violation of due process and equal protection rights under the U.S. Constitution.
Lloyd M. Cueto of Belleville filed the complaint for West, stating his client was in the process of opening D’s Convenience Store at 3400 Bunkum Road.
He claims West applied for liquor and business licenses in January 2020, and satisfied all requirements.
He claims an inspector approved West’s plan last summer.