Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown has been ordered to pay $13 million in damages after a California jury ruled in favour of his former housekeeper, who claimed she suffered life-changing injuries after being attacked by one of his dogs.
The verdict marks another legal setback for the R&B star, whose career has frequently been overshadowed by courtroom battles despite his continued success in the music industry.
The lawsuit was filed by Maria Avila, who worked at Brown’s California residence.
According to Avila, the incident occurred while she was carrying out her duties at the property. She told jurors that she stepped outside to dispose of rubbish when a large dog in the backyard allegedly attacked her without warning.
Avila said the animal inflicted serious injuries that left her covered in blood and requiring emergency medical attention.
She argued that Brown, as the dog’s owner, failed to restrain or control the animal properly and should therefore be held legally responsible for the attack.
Throughout the civil trial, Brown rejected the allegations and maintained that he was not at fault.
The singer argued that Avila’s own actions contributed to the incident, insisting she had triggered the dog’s behaviour.
Brown also testified during the proceedings, explaining why he did not personally call emergency services after the attack.
According to him, he feared that contacting 911 himself would immediately attract media attention because of his celebrity status.
Instead, he said a member of his team placed the emergency call.
Although Avila initially sought $90 million in compensation, the jury ultimately awarded her $13 million after finding Brown liable for the injuries she sustained.
The judgment represents a significant financial penalty and concludes years of legal proceedings surrounding the incident.
The latest ruling adds to a long list of legal controversies involving Chris Brown over the years.
Despite remaining one of the biggest names in R&B and consistently releasing chart-topping music, the singer has repeatedly faced lawsuits and criminal investigations that have kept him in the headlines beyond his music career.
The $13 million verdict now joins that growing list, serving as another high-profile legal defeat for the award-winning entertainer.
