FCC Grants AT&T Damages in Complaint About Sham LECs

The FCC awarded AT&T more than $250,000 in damages in response to the company's complaint against multiple "sham" LECs, the commission said in a decision released Friday. The commission previously granted AT&T's complaint against the three LECs -- All American Telephone Co., ChaseCom and e-Pinnacle Communications -- that claimed they billed AT&T for access services they didn't provide -- and Thursday voted to partially grant the wireless provider's request for damages. AT&T also sought interest and consequential damages, which the FCC dismissed, saying it can pursue the additional damages in court. The total amount granted by the commission is equal to the amount AT&T initially paid the defendants for their services. The commission also dismissed the defendants' motions for dismissal and a declaratory ruling. All American Telephone Company and ChaseCom could not be reached for comment. e-Pinnacle Communications didn't comment.