Oberlin College mass email criticizing Jurors could influence Punitive Damages Hearing in Gibson's Bakery case
- Publicly accusing jurors of disregarding “the clear evidence our team presented” when the trial is not over is another baffling move by Oberlin College.
"There are a lot of things about the way Oberlin College handled the Gibson’s Bakery dispute and lawsuit that have had me wondering who, if anyone, is in control over there.
As mentioned numerous times, “from the start of this case I have questioned the aggressive and demeaning attacks on the Gibsons as a defense strategy,” and “I’m still shaking my head at the tone-deafness of the defense in belittling this family business.”
The jury seems to have agreed, rendering a combined $11.2 million compensatory damages verdict against Oberlin College and its Dean of Students, Meredith Raimondo.The next stage is a punitive damages hearing, since the jury found the defendants acted with intent and malice.
...In this context, there is nothing more baffling than a statement sent to alumni after the verdict by Donica Thomas Varner, Oberlin College’s Vice President and General Counsel.
...Procedurally, the email is baffling because the trial is not over.
The jury will hear more evidence and render a verdict on punitive damages that could add another $22 million to the $11 million compensatory.
...Substantively, the email is infuriating to anyone who has followed the case.
Oberlin College and Raimondo were not “held liable for the independent actions of their students.” Rather, the defendants were held liable for their own conduct in aiding and abetting the publication of libelous documents, interference with business, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Let me repeat, it was the college’s and Raimondo’s own conduct that was at issue before the jury..."
Read all!
No comments:
Post a Comment