Chris Brown Faces $13 Million Verdict After Dog Attack Incident
Chris Brown Ordered to Pay Damages
Renowned American artist Chris Brown has been mandated to pay nearly $13 million following a jury's decision in a civil case stemming from a serious incident in 2020 that left his former housekeeper with severe injuries. The jury in Los Angeles ruled in favor of Maria Avila, who was attacked by Hades, a large Caucasian shepherd, while she was disposing of trash at Brown's home in Tarzana, California.
The jury found both Chris Brown and his company, Black Pyramid LLC, negligent, awarding Avila a total of $12.9 million in damages. Additionally, her sister Patricia Avila received $885,000 for emotional distress, while Maria's husband, Oscar Olivo, was awarded $50,000.
As reported by Variety, court testimonies revealed that Avila suffered serious injuries to her face and left arm, requiring multiple surgeries and skin grafts. She continues to face challenges related to post-traumatic stress and has been unable to return to her job as a housekeeper due to her injuries and fear of dogs.
During the trial, Brown contended that the dog was intended for security purposes and not as a pet. He claimed he had instructed the housekeepers to remain indoors unless security personnel were present. However, both Maria and Patricia Avila testified that they had not received such instructions, citing language barriers.
Jurors were informed that Brown allegedly left the scene after the incident instead of calling for emergency assistance. He later testified that he panicked upon witnessing the extent of Avila's injuries and followed his manager's advice to leave, fearing media scrutiny if he remained.
According to Rolling Stone, Maria Avila shared her emotional struggles in court, detailing the long-term impacts of the incident, including significant facial scarring, reduced arm mobility, and ongoing emotional distress. Her daughter testified that the once outgoing woman has become withdrawn, avoids family gatherings, and feels uncomfortable having her picture taken due to her appearance.
This verdict was announced shortly after Brown commenced his co-headlining US stadium tour with Usher. In another legal matter, Brown is set to face trial in the UK later this year concerning allegations involving music producer Abraham Diaw at a nightclub. He has denied any wrongdoing in that case and is currently out on bail pending trial.