Reppucci v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., et al.

Summary

In this tobacco trial, Joseph Repucci developed oropharyngeal cancer after smoking R.J. Reynolds cigarettes for years.

Plaintiff Reppucci claims that the cigarettes were defectively designed and engineered to be as addictive as possible. Attorneys for Reppucci highlight how he tried multiple times yet failed to quit smoking. This, they argue, shows how addicted he was to nicotine.

Defendant R.J. Reynolds claims that Reppucci knew cigarettes were inherently dangerous, yet continued to smoke despite warnings on cigarette packs. And, representatives for Reynolds assert that nicotine and inhalability are qualities inherent to cigarettes, not defective design.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $20,785,691.