A California jury has ordered R&B singer Chris Brown to pay $12.9 million in damages to Maria Avila, a housekeeper who was severely mauled by a guard dog at his Tarzana property in 2020.
The verdict was delivered at a trial in Van Nuys, California, concluding a legal battle that began when Avila sued the artist in 2021.
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The attack was carried out by a Caucasian shepherd named Hades.
Avila testified that she suffered severe arm and face injuries requiring dozens of sutures and skin grafts, along with post-traumatic stress disorder and persistent nerve damage.
The jury also awarded $885,000 for emotional distress to Maria's sister, Patricia Avila, and $50,000 to Maria's husband, Oscar Olivo.
Brown, who was home during the incident, admitted negligence but disputed the severity of the injuries. He claimed he had previously warned the housekeepers about the dangerous animal.
The singer testified that he secured the dog after the attack but left the property before the ambulance arrived to prevent media attention surrounding his celebrity status.
He further argued that the guard dog was necessary due to frequent stalker situations at his home.
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Following the verdict, the legal representation for the victims expressed satisfaction with the court outcome after multiple years of litigation.
"After more than five years of litigating against Chris Brown, we are thrilled that we were able to get justice for our client, Patricia.
