A trial team of attorneys led by Richard Friedman of Friedman Rubin, PLLP and PCVA partner, Colleen Durkin Peterson obtained a $72 million verdict against chemical conglomerate Monsanto on behalf of two clients exposed to PCBs at Sky Valley Education Center in Monroe, Wash. Both plaintiffs sustained chronic permanent injuries due to the chemical exposure.
“These were children whose lives were forever altered by a company that chose to look the other way out of greed, despite knowing for decades about the dangers posed by their chemicals,” said Colleen. “Monsanto downplayed the harms associated with PCBs and allowed students and staff at Sky Valley Education Center to suffer. I’m honored to have worked with Rick, Sean Gamble, Henry Jones and the entire FR team on this incredibly impactful case.”
The King County Superior Court jury ruled Monsanto is liable for supplying an unsafe product that lacked adequate warnings and caused injury to the plaintiffs. Of the $72 million in damages, $12 million were compensatory, while $60 million were punitive.
Colleen added, “Our clients are pleased with the results of this case, and hope that the verdict sends a clear signal to Monsanto that putting profits over people is not a victimless act and does not come without accountability.”
Media coverage about the settlement:
Seattle Jury Awards $72M In Latest Monsanto PCB Trial, Law360, 7/14/23
Legal Lions Of The Week, Law360, 7/21/23