Seton v. Clark ( 1891 )

Barnard, P. J.

The plaintiff owns certain lots in the city of Brooklyn. The defendant entered into the possession of these lots. While the defendant was in possession of the premises he tilled in the lots with refuse filling. The plaintiff claims that the entry by defendant was without his permission, and that the filling injured the lots; and he demands judgment for the use and occupation, and for the injury resulting from the filling. The defendant avers a contract at five dollars per month, and that the use was to be for his purposes. The evidence was as conflicting as the pleadings. There was proof tending to show that a lease was refused by plaintiff, and that the entry was consequently wrongful, and the filling injurious and unauthorized. The defendant produced evidence that there was a lease for $15 per month, and the question of fact went to the jury, who found for the plaintiff. No rent had been paid. It was claimed that rent had been tendered and refused. There is no basis for a reversal of the judgment. The demand of the use and occupation of the lots as a part of the compensation for the trespass was right, if there was a trespass; and, if there was a contract, such a claim would not prevenía recovery of the agreed price, if one was proven. The refusal to charge that the jury must find for the defendant if there was a contract was right. The action must be sustained under the second cause of action if there was a mere contract of lease, and an injury done to the property which the contract did not authorize. The proof, showed that the lots were filled in where the houses are usually built in cities; that the filling was some 10 feet deep. The quantity of refuse was proven, and what it would take to excavate it was also proven. Every fact necessary for correct judgment was given. The verdict of the jury is fully sustained by the evidence, and the judgment should be affirmed, with costs. All concur.