Chris Brown’s civil dog-attack lawsuit has taken another turn before trial.
A security supervisor for the singer testified in a deposition that he personally gave Brown’s former housekeeper, Maria Avila, and her family tens of thousands of dollars after she says she was attacked by Brown’s dog in 2020.
TMZ reported that Emil Lewis, identified as Brown’s security supervisor, said he paid Avila and her family about $30,000 to $40,000 through personal checks and cash around Christmas 2020. Lewis reportedly testified that he felt sorry for the family and said he did not discuss the payments with Brown.
The Payments Could Become a Trial Fight
The money is now part of a legal dispute over what jurors should hear when the case goes to trial. Avila has asked the judge to block Brown’s side from using Lewis’ alleged payments as evidence, arguing that the payments do not prove whether the alleged attack happened, how serious her injuries were, or whether Brown should be held responsible.
Brown’s side sees the issue differently. TMZ reported that Brown’s legal team argues Lewis’ deposition makes the payments relevant because, in their view, the money could show Lewis acknowledged responsibility for the incident.
The judge has not yet ruled on whether the testimony will be allowed.
Avila Is Suing Brown for $90 Million
Avila is seeking $90 million in damages over the alleged dog attack at Brown’s home. She claims the dog caused severe injuries, and her lawsuit includes injury photos she wants to use in court.
Earlier this month, TMZ reported that Avila was fighting to show the photos at trial, arguing they were important to prove the severity of her injuries, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Brown’s side has been trying to limit what evidence can be shown when the case reaches jurors.
The Case Is Still Allegation-Based
The lawsuit centers on disputed civil claims, not a criminal conviction or a final civil judgment. Avila says Brown’s dog attacked her and left her with serious injuries, while Brown’s defense has disputed parts of the case.
TMZ previously reported that Brown has denied Avila’s claims and argued that she provoked the dog.
The current issue is narrower: whether jurors should hear about payments Lewis says he made, and whether those payments are relevant to liability, damages, or what happened after the alleged attack.
The Trial Is Scheduled for June
The court fight over evidence comes shortly before the case is expected to go before a jury. NDTV reported that the trial is currently scheduled to begin on June 15, with the judge still expected to decide whether the payment testimony can be used.