In the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, Padraic Ryan, on behalf of himself and derivatively on behalf of Eco Bay Services, Inc., has filed a lawsuit against Trent Michels and other unnamed defendants (DOES 1-10). The case, identified as CGC-24-614176, was filed on April 24, 2024.
Represented by attorneys Edwin K. Prather and Sybil L. Renick from Prather Law Offices along with Kathleen E. Alparce from Law Offices of Kathleen E. Alparce, Ryan alleges that Michels, a director, officer, and majority shareholder of Eco Bay Services Inc., has caused millions in damages to the company and its shareholders through various wrongdoings. Among these allegations are breach of fiduciary duty, gross mismanagement, abuse of control, corporate waste, violation of shareholder inspection rights and fraud among others. Additionally, Ryan seeks individual damages for breach of contract, retaliation and wrongful termination among other claims.
Ryan asserts that Michels lured him away from his previous employment with promises of financial success and professional growth at Eco Bay Services Inc., which was then a struggling start-up. However, despite initial success in growing the company together with Michels, Ryan alleges that he was deceived by Michels who failed to uphold his promises.
Ryan is seeking a remedy for the alleged wrongdoing committed by Michels which includes a demand for jury trial. The plaintiff is asserting claims under California state law for various breaches including fiduciary duty and contract along with seeking declaratory relief.