Robert Middleton v. Don Collins (2014): A $150 Billion Verdict for Unimaginable Burn Injuries
The pursuit of justice can take many forms, especially when dealing with horrific personal injuries. The case of Robert Middleton v. Don Collins (2014) stands as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of severe burn injuries and the complexities of the legal system. In this case, a Fayette County jury reached a verdict of $150 billion, which is the largest civil verdict in US history. While the monetary value was largely symbolic, the case brought much-needed attention to a heinous crime and the long, arduous journey toward justice for the victim and his family.
The Unthinkable Crime
In 1998, eight-year-old Robert “Robbie” Middleton was lured into a wooded area near his home in Splendora, Texas. There, his 13-year-old neighbor, Don Collins, ambushed him, tied him to a tree, doused him in gasoline, and set him on fire. Robbie miraculously survived the attack, but he sustained third-degree burns over 99% of his body. According to reports, the only part of his body that was not burned was a small spot on his foot.
For the next 12 years, Robbie endured unimaginable pain and suffering, undergoing more than 150 surgeries and countless skin treatments. Despite his horrific injuries, Robbie displayed remarkable resilience and courage.
A Civil Suit Seeks Justice
Initially, Don Collins was detained in connection with the crime, but he was released due to insufficient evidence. Frustrated by the lack of criminal prosecution, Robbie’s parents, Colleen and Bobby Ray Middleton, filed a civil lawsuit against Collins.
In 2011, shortly before his death at age 20 from skin cancer linked to his burns, Robbie gave a 27-minute video deposition, identifying Don Collins as his attacker. This deposition became a crucial piece of evidence in the civil trial.
The $150 Billion Verdict: A Symbolic Victory
The civil trial culminated in a Fayette County jury awarding the Middleton family $150 billion in damages. This amount was intended to be symbolic, exceeding the largest civil settlement on record at the time. The goal was to pressure prosecutors to reopen the criminal case against Collins.
While the Middletons never expected to receive the full $150 billion, the verdict served as a powerful statement about the severity of the crime and the need for justice. It also highlighted the importance of symbolic damages in cases where the primary goal is to hold the perpetrator accountable and bring attention to the victim’s suffering.
Criminal Charges and Conviction
The $150 billion verdict did, in fact, lead to the reopening of the criminal case against Don Collins. In 2015, Collins was found guilty of capital murder in Robert Middleton’s death. He was sentenced to 40 years in prison, the maximum sentence allowed for a juvenile at the time of the crime.
Understanding Burn Injury Settlements
Burn injuries can result in significant financial compensation, depending on the severity and impact of the injury. Several factors influence the value of a burn injury claim, including:
- Severity of the burn: Burns are classified into degrees, with first-degree burns being the least severe and fourth-degree burns being the most severe. Higher-degree burns typically result in higher settlements.
- Medical bills: The cost of treatment, including surgeries, medications, skin grafts, and rehabilitation, is a significant factor in determining the settlement amount.
- Lost wages: If the burn injury prevents the victim from working, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: This compensation covers the physical pain and emotional trauma associated with the burn injury.
- Long-term effects: Burns can cause permanent scarring, disfigurement, and other long-term health problems, which can increase the value of the claim.
Settlements for burn injuries can range from under $10,000 for minor first-degree burns to millions of dollars for severe third- and fourth-degree burns.
Seeking Legal Assistance
If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, it is crucial to seek legal assistance from an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, assess the value of your claim, and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
Conclusion
The case of Robert Middleton v. Don Collins (2014) serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of burn injuries and the importance of seeking justice for victims. While the $150 billion verdict was largely symbolic, it played a crucial role in bringing attention to the crime and ultimately leading to the conviction of the perpetrator. If you or someone you know has suffered a burn injury, remember that you have legal options and should seek the guidance of a qualified attorney.