Keeney v. John Crane, Inc. – $5.55 Million

---

On January 27, 2012, a Los Angeles, California jury of 6 men and 6 women awarded more than $5,550,000 in favor of a 70 year old man diagnosed with mesothelioma (an asbestos cancer) and his male domestic partner. Trial lasted approximately 4 weeks beginning on December 12, 2011.  The jury deliberated for 14 days.  Defendant John Crane, Inc. was found 12% negligent and strictly liable for its asbestos packing and gaskets which exposed plaintiff to asbestos for approximately 15 years.  Other defendants confidentially resolved prior to or during trial. Simona A. Farrise, LL.M. and Carlos J. Guzman, Esq., Farrise Law Firm; and Sharon Arkin, Arkin Law Firm, both firms of Los Angeles, lead the effort for the plaintiffs.  John Crane, Inc. was represented by Robert Thackston and Claire Weglarz of the national law firm of Hawkins, Parnell, Thackston & Young.  Defendant John Crane removed the case to Federal Court on December 22, 2011 during trial and the Federal Court remanded the matter by order dated December 26, 2011.

Plaintiff, a hardworking 70 year old pump mechanic, was exposed to defendant John Crane’s asbestos packing and gaskets while he worked at C&H Sugar in Benicia, California from 1979 to 1995.  Plaintiff also served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years although no exposure claims were made for his Navy service. Plaintiff’s male domestic partner was also awarded damages for the loss of his partner’s love, companionship, comfort, care and moral support.

John Crane, Inc. manufactured and/or sold worldwide more than 300 different asbestos containing gasket and packing styles from 1917 through at least 1985.  At trial, John Crane’s expert was able to evaluate asbestos containing packing that was still in existence by 2009.