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Chris Brown Ordered to Pay $13 Million After Dog Attack on Housekeeper

A Los Angeles jury has determined that recording artist Chris Brown is financially responsible for significant damages following a 2020 dog attack at his residence. The substantial award is intended to compensate his former housekeeper for the severe injuries she sustained.

7/22/2026, 6:16:37 PM

A Los Angeles court has ordered musician Chris Brown to pay a substantial sum of $13 million to his former housekeeper, following a brutal dog attack that occurred at his property in 2020. The ruling, delivered by a jury this past Tuesday, concludes a two-week legal proceeding concerning the incident. According to Variety, the verdict strongly favored Maria Avila, who suffered severe disfigurement from the mauling. The case centered on an attack by Brown's dog, Hades, which inflicted considerable harm upon Ms. Avila while she was performing her duties at the artist's Tarzana home. The incident, which took place in December 2020, resulted in Ms. Avila undergoing multiple surgeries to address her injuries. Her legal team presented evidence detailing the extensive physical and emotional trauma she endured, emphasizing the long-term impact on her life and well-being. Legal proceedings highlighted arguments regarding Brown's alleged negligence in controlling his animal. The plaintiff contended that the entertainer was aware of the dog's aggressive tendencies before the attack. This knowledge, combined with the circumstances surrounding the incident, formed a key part of the argumentation presented to the jury. Ultimately, the jury found Brown liable for the damages Ms. Avila sustained. The $13 million judgment is intended to cover various aspects of her suffering, including medical expenses, lost earnings, and compensation for pain and suffering and emotional distress. This significant financial penalty underscores the gravity of the injuries and the responsibility placed upon pet owners. Representatives for Mr. Brown have not yet publicly commented on the verdict. The outcome of this trial sends a clear message about accountability in cases of animal-inflicted injury, particularly when property owners may be perceived as negligent in safeguarding their staff or visitors.

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