Photo: HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP / Getty Images
Chris Brown has been ordered by a California jury to pay $13 million in damages to his former housekeeper, Maria Avila, following a dog attack at his home in December 2020. The jury found Brown and his company, Black Pyramid LLC, liable for negligence after Avila was mauled by a 200-pound Caucasian Shepherd named Hades at Brown's residence in Tarzana, California.
Avila, who suffered severe injuries to her arm and face, testified about the traumatic incident during a two-week trial in Van Nuys, California. She described enduring extensive surgeries, including skin grafts, and the lasting impact on her physical and emotional well-being. Avila's sister, Patricia Avila, was awarded $885,000 for emotional distress, while Maria's husband, Oscar Olivo, received $50,000 for the impact on their marriage.
During the trial, Brown admitted negligence under California's dog-bite statute but disputed the extent of Avila's injuries. He claimed he warned the housekeepers about the presence of the dog and advised them to stay inside unless accompanied by security. However, Avila and her sister denied receiving such warnings.
Brown testified that he did not personally call 911, fearing media exposure, and left the scene before paramedics arrived. He stated that he followed his manager's advice to avoid a "media circus." Despite admitting some culpability, Brown argued that Avila provoked the dog, a claim she denied.
The verdict comes as Brown embarks on a U.S. tour with Usher, and he is scheduled to face another trial in London in October for an alleged assault in 2003. The jury's decision marks a significant legal outcome for Avila, who initially sought $90 million in damages.