The Louisiana Court of Appeal has ruled against Carl and Hattie Franklin in their property dispute with BellSouth Telecommunications, LLC, also known as AT&T Louisiana. The court's decision, rendered on September 30, 2026, upholds a lower court's dismissal of the Franklins' claims, which included allegations of trespass and property damage. This ruling is significant as it clarifies the legal boundaries regarding utility easements and property rights in Louisiana.
The Franklins, residents of Bossier City, Louisiana, alleged that BellSouth entered their property without permission to install internet lines. They claimed this action caused damage to their plumbing and landscaping and led to a mosquito infestation. The court's decision impacts not only the Franklins but also sets a precedent for how utility companies can operate within easements on private property.
Background
The case began when the Franklins filed a petition against several parties, including the City of Bossier, Mayor Thomas H. Chandler, and BellSouth, on March 21, 2023. The Franklins alleged that on April 27, 2022, BellSouth and Suddenlink entered their property to place internet lines for their neighbors, the Wares, without permission. The dispute escalated when the Wares allegedly placed stakes on the Franklins' property, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the arrest of Carl Franklin and his daughter.
Initially, the Franklins included multiple defendants in their lawsuit, but by December 2023, they amended their petition to focus primarily on BellSouth, following the dismissal of other parties. The Franklins claimed that the installation of the internet lines caused significant damage to their property, including plumbing issues and landscaping destruction. They sought damages for trespass, conversion, and false arrest.
The Ruling
On November 4, 2025, the trial court granted BellSouth's motion for summary judgment, stating that the Franklins failed to provide evidence of trespass. The court noted that the neighborhood had utility easements that allowed BellSouth to install underground cables. The Franklins appealed this decision, but the Court of Appeal upheld the trial court's ruling.
Judge Stephens, writing for the court, stated, "The Franklins failed to offer evidence supporting any type of trespass on April 27, 2022." The court found that BellSouth had an existing utility easement that permitted its activities. The ruling emphasized that the Franklins did not present sufficient evidence to challenge BellSouth's claims regarding the easement's validity.
Impact
This ruling has significant implications for property owners and utility companies in Louisiana. It reinforces the legal standing of utility easements, allowing companies like BellSouth to operate within designated areas without fear of trespass claims, as long as they remain within the boundaries of the easement. The decision also highlights the importance of property records and easement agreements in resolving disputes over land use.
Furthermore, the court's ruling could deter similar lawsuits from property owners who may feel wronged by utility companies, as it establishes a precedent that easements are legally binding and enforceable. The Franklins' case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in property disputes, particularly when utility services are concerned.
What's Next
The Franklins have the option to appeal this decision to the Louisiana Supreme Court, but it remains unclear whether they will pursue this route. There are no related cases pending that could affect this ruling. The court's decision effectively concludes the Franklins' claims against BellSouth.