Surveying Trade Secrets Allegedly Pilfered in Minnesota

Sometimes we blog a news story that doesn't have any national or international legal implications but we do it just to demonstrate that trade secret theft and allegations of the same are popping up in locations and businesses where you wouldn't expect it. With that, we bring you . . .

The Park Ridge (Minnesota) Enterprise is reporting that a well-known Park Rapids surveyor and developer faces felony theft charges in a case that alleges elements of competitive espionage.

Thomas Miller, 64, has been charged with downloading the database of Arro Surveying, his former employer, and taking it and a client list to Lindow Surveying and Mapping, where he is now employed.

Miller is a fixture at Hubbard County Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission meetings, where his projects and clients are frequently presented and represented. He is well respected by those boards and the County Board of Commissioners, with which he has done business on a regular basis. The information he allegedly stole is valued at $165,000.

Miller, through his attorney, has denied the allegations.