Chris Brown’s civil trial over a 2020 dog attack was suddenly derailed this week after a Los Angeles judge declared a mistrial when a juror was found to have researched the case outside court.
The lawsuit was filed by Maria Avila, who says one of Brown’s dogs attacked her in 2020, leaving her with serious injuries, including “disfigurement,” nerve damage and lasting emotional trauma. The case has been moving through the courts for years and is now centered on the extent of Brown’s responsibility and the damages, if any, Avila should receive.
Brown has acknowledged some responsibility for the attack itself, but he disputes parts of Avila’s version of what happened immediately afterward. Avila claims she did not receive proper help in the moments after she was hurt and says Brown remained nearby while the situation unfolded.
Brown claims that he acted quickly by securing the animals and calling for medical assistance.
On Tuesday, Judge Huey P. Cotton paused the proceedings after learning that a juror had conducted “outside research,” which court rules prohibit. Jurors are required to consider only evidence presented in court.
The case is expected to resume quickly. A new jury is set to be chosen by Thursday, when Brown is scheduled to return to court.