Chris Brown Ordered to Pay Nearly $13 Million After Dog Attack Trial

A Los Angeles jury has ordered singer Chris Brown and his company, Black Pyramid LLC, to pay nearly $13 million after a trial over a 2020 dog attack at his California home.

The lawsuit was filed by former housekeeper Maria Avila, who said Brown's 200-pound Caucasian shepherd, Hades, attacked her while she was taking out the trash at his Tarzana property. Avila testified that the dog caused severe injuries, including permanent facial scarring, vision loss and nerve damage.

According to reports, the jury awarded Avila about $12.9 million for negligence. Her sister, Patricia Avila, who was also working at the home during the incident, was awarded $885,000 for emotional distress. Maria's husband, Oscar Olivo, received $50,000.

Brown admitted some responsibility before the trial but argued that Avila shared blame for the attack and challenged the extent of her injuries. He testified that he had warned workers not to go outside without security because the dogs were not friendly. Brown also said Hades was used by his security team to protect the property rather than being his personal pet.

The verdict comes as Brown is touring with Usher. He is also due to stand trial in London in October over allegations that he assaulted music producer Abraham Diaw with a bottle at a nightclub. Brown has denied wrongdoing in that case and remains on bail.