Cook v. Hennessey Industries, et al.

VERDICT

Trial
02/18/25 – 03/14/25

Summary

In this asbestos case, plaintiff contends she developed peritoneal mesothelioma from exposure to chrysotile asbestos in brake dust created when family members used defendant's brake grinder. Plaintiff claims defendant failed to properly warn of the dangers of brake dust created by the use of its product.

Defendant, the maker of the brake grinder and the only defendant at trial, claims chrysotile asbestos does not cause peritoneal mesothelioma. It maintains plaintiff may have developed mesothelioma through genetic factors or other natural causes. It also contends its conduct, including any warnings and testing, was adequate for the time frame involved.

Click here for a playlist focused on causation, a central issue in this trial.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $18 million.

Apportionment of fault:
Hennessey Industries: 15%
Parties not at trial: 85%

Case Information
Attorneys
Witnesses
Plaintiff
Defense
Verdict
$18,000,000
Judge
Martin Bidwill
Jurisdiction
17th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Court
Judicial Complex
Case Number
CACE24003818
Industry
Retail
Practice Area
Asbestos
Plaintiff
Cook, Denise
Defense
Hennessey Industries
Defense
Avon Products Inc.
Expert Witnesses
Lay Witnesses

Sessions

FEB
18
FEB
19
PM Session
Plaintiff Witness(es)
4 Chapters
FEB
20
MAR
3
MAR
4
MAR
5
MAR
6
MAR
10
MAR
11
MAR
12
MAR
13
MAR
14

Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in full.

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