Chris Brown just received a major reduction in the $12.9 million judgment tied to his former housekeeper’s dog attack lawsuit. Maria Avila agreed to accept $9.5 million after a judge questioned whether the evidence supported some of the damages awarded by the jury.
Brown’s former housekeeper agreed to $9.5 million after a judge questioned evidence supporting some damages
According to TMZ, Avila agreed to the lower amount in newly filed court documents. A jury had previously awarded Avila $12.9 million following a trial over the 2020 dog attack at Brown’s Tarzana, California, home.
However, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Huey P. Cotton later questioned part of that award. The court found insufficient evidence to support claims of permanent nerve damage. The judge also questioned the amount assigned to future pain and suffering.
As a result, Avila faced two options. She could accept $9.5 million or proceed with a new trial focused on damages. She chose the reduced amount.
The new award includes $3.85 million for past non-economic losses. It also includes $5.4 million for future non-economic losses and $250,000 for future medical expenses.
The lawsuit dates back to December 2020. Avila later testified that Brown’s dog attacked her while she was taking out the trash, leaving her fearing for her life. She described the attack in court, saying the animal bit her face and arm before dragging her.
Brown denied wrongdoing throughout the case. However, jurors later found him liable alongside Black Pyramid LLC and awarded Avila $12.9 million. The financial fight continued after the verdict.
Avila previously tried to access Brown’s income from his tour with Usher. She argued that his tour earnings could help satisfy the judgment.
Later, a judge allowed Avila to pursue Brown’s royalties and other income in an effort to collect the judgment. Now, the amount Brown owes Avila has fallen by roughly $3.4 million.
Even so, the dog attack judgment remains substantial at $9.5 million.
