Taser International held responsible in landmark decision
On Friday June 6, 2008, NPAP member John Burton and co-counsel Peter
Williamson obtained a landmark victory against Taser International, an Arizona based stun-gun manufacturer. A federal jury held Taser responsible for the death of Robert Heston who died in 2005 from a combination of methamphetamine intoxication, health issues related to drug abuse, and multiple Taser shocks. The six jurors awarded the
parents and sister of Heston more than $6 million in compensatory and punitive damages.
The suit alleged that the company failed to properly warn consumers that Taser shocks can be dangerous or even lethal when used repeatedly and in combination with chest compression on individuals under the influence of drugs. The jury exonerated the other defendants in the suit, the Salinas police department as well as the four officers involved in the lethal altercation.
The verdict is especially remarkable as it is the first time that the stun-gun manufacturer has been held responsible for a death or injury linked to its product. Following the verdict Taser stock fell 10% to its lowest level since December 2005. It is expected that Taser will appeal the verdict.
To read the verdict click here
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