Trial News

Doe, 18, was a manager at a coffee shop. The shop’s owner, Lewis Jewett, 48, allegedly called her into the coffee shop, stating that he wanted to repay her the money he owed her. When Doe arrived, Jewett allegedly began talking negatively about his wife. He allegedly told Doe that he was no longer attracted to his wife and that he “lived by” Doe and enjoyed flirting with her. Jewett then asked Doe to go to see the shop’s remodeled bathroom. Once inside the bathroom, Jewett allegedly held Doe against the wall, groped her, and forced her to place her hand down his pants. Doe subsequently pressed charges against Jewett; however, the state dismissed the charges.

Doe sued Jewett, alleging assault, battery, and false imprisonment.

The jury awarded more than $772,200, including $450,000 in punitive damages.

Citation: Doe v. Jewett, No. 19-CVS-1316 (N.C. Super. Ct. Mecklenburg Cty. Feb. 19, 2020).

Plaintiff counsel: Sean Herrmann and Kevin Murphy, both of Charlotte, N.C.

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