Trial News

D’Anna Brown, who was in her early 20s, worked as an exotic dancer. Late one night, while working in a private room at Club Onyx, she heard a commotion in another room. She went outside to investigate and was struck in the face by a glass bottle. Brown suffered severe dental injuries, including the loss of four teeth. She also suffered a traumatic brain injury that has resulted in memory problems and cognitive difficulties. Her medical expenses totaled approximately $60,000.

Brown sued the owner of the club, alleging negligent security. The plaintiff asserted that the defendant had served alcohol to VIP patrons past the 2 a.m. deadline, causing them to become intoxicated and overly aggressive. The plaintiff did not claim lost income.

The defense argued that the plaintiff had already been paid a settlement and signed a release. In response, the plaintiff asserted a claim for fraud, disputing that she had signed the defendant’s release.

The jury awarded $1.32 million, including $500,000 in punitive damages.

Citation: Brown v. End Zone Inc., No. 1608-01029 (Pa. Ct. Com. Pl. Phila. Cty. May 10, 2019).

Plaintiff counsel: David P. Thiruselvam, Philadelphia.