A defendant found negligent in causing an automobile collision had his appeal of a $747,750 jury verdict levied against him dismissed after notifying the Ninth Court of Appeals that case had been settled.
Through the Provost Umphrey Law Firm, plaintiffs Lisa Chapman and Amanda Breeden, as next of friend of several minors, filed suit against Alex and Maura Tony, Susan and Robert Saurage, and Dana Baker Jr. on Feb. 28, 2013, in Jefferson County District Court.
Jeremiah Demarcus Kelly was later added as a defendant.
The plaintiffs alleged reckless driving in an automobile collision that took place on Highway 69. Chapman blamed Kelly for causing a collision on Aug. 16, 2013.
The trial of Chapman v. Jeremiah Demarcus Kelly began Feb. 9 and concluded on Feb. 17.
Jurors were asked if the negligence of Kelly caused the occurrence, for which they answered “Yes,” according to the charge of the court.
The jury awarded Chapman $150,000 for her past and future pain, $150,000 for her past and future mental anguish, $225,000 for her past and future impairment, $157,750 for her past and future medical expenses and $65,000 for her future disfigurement.
Court records further show that on May 27 Kelly filed a notice of appeal, which states he desires to appeal the final judgment entered on March 10.
On July 16 Ninth Court justices issued a memorandum opinion stating that parties have reached an agreement to settle and compromise their differences and Kelly no longer desires to appeal the trial court’s judgment.
Judge Kent Walston, 58th District Court, presided over the trial.
Case No. A194-035