A California jury orders R&B singer Chris Brown to pay $12.9 million to his former housekeeper, Maria Avila, after an attack at one of his properties in 2020. Multiple outlets report that Avila was working at Brown’s home in Tarzana, California, when she was mauled by Hades, a Caucasian shepherd described as weighing about 90 kg (around 200 pounds) and kept by Brown for security purposes. Avila says the dog caused severe injuries, including disfigurement to her face and arm, and required medical treatment such as sutures and skin grafts. She also reports ongoing effects including vision problems and nerve damage, which impaired her ability to work.
Outlets also report that the case involved testimony about what happened immediately after the attack. Brown testified about his reaction and said he left the scene on advice from his manager, and he argued that he had warned Avila and another worker not to approach the dogs. Avila and the other workers disputed that warning.
In addition to Avila’s award, outlets report payments to related family members: Avila’s sister was awarded $885,000 and her husband received $50,000. Brown and his company Black Pyramid LLC are named in the damages verdict.
