The Jonathan Gdanski Closing That Helped Key $157M Tobacco Trial Verdict

Jonathan Gdanski argues why he believes a Florida jury should impose a stiff punitive award against R.J. Reynolds and Philip Morris for the respiratory disease-related death of a Florida man. 

Edward Caprio died from respiratory disease in 2018, following decades of smoking. His husband, Bryan Rintoul, contends a conspiracy by the tobacco companies to hide the dangers of smoking caused Caprio’s nicotine addiction, and ultimately his fatal respiratory disease. 

Jurors awarded $157 million, including $148 million in punitive damages. The award is the largest such verdict in five years in an Engle-progeny tobacco case--litigation stemming from a large class action against the tobacco industry.