This afternoon, an Los Angeles jury determined that the Dodgers are partially liable for the injuries sustained by Bryan Stow in a Dodger Stadium parking lot attack in 2011. Furthermore, former team owner Frank McCourt escaped any responsibility. He was absolved of any contributory negligence.
And with that, the nearly 5 week long trial is over. The team will be responsible for 25% of the $18Million verdict, or $4.5Million total. Unfortunately, that is the most the victim is likely to ever receive. It is highly doubtful that his two attackers have any money to pay for their collective 75% of financial responsibility.
I wish I could say that this closes one of the saddest chapters in the history of the Dodgers franchise, but that would be callous. The truth is that this act of violence perpetrated on our home field is something that should haunt us.
We all should bear some responsibility. After all, how many times have you looked the other way when a drunken bully acts out in an inappropriate way (beyond playful banter)? Have you done enough to tell that stranger to cool it? Would you do it today? I get that it is scary to speak out, but at some point you just can't sit back.
Also, I think it's important to remember that this verdict is just the beginning for Bryan Stow. He is the one who will have to endure it all. I hope he is able to live as full a life as possible, and that these funds are enough to provide for his care. Hopefully, this verdict provides some relief and help.
KTLA 5 has a good story on the verdict here.
Pic at the very top via KTLA 5 on facebook.
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