Vanessa Bryant Awarded $16 Million In Case Against L.A. County Officials: Report

Her co-plaintiff, Christopher Chester, was also awarded $15 million. He lost his wife and daughter in the helicopter crash.

BYErika Marie
Amy Sussman / Staff / Getty Images

Just one day after sports fans celebrated Kobe Bryant's birthday, a decision has been made in the case centering around the late icon's death scene photos. Vanessa Bryant was outraged to learn that members of the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, as well as members of the Fire Departments, reportedly shared and showed strangers photos of the tragic helicopter aftermath that left nine people dead, including the Bryants' daughter, Gianna.

Vanessa and co-plaintiff Christopher Chester, whose wife and daughter also perished in the crash, took Los Angeles County to court and were victorious.

Dia Dipasupil / Staff / Getty Images

According to several reports, Vanessa Bryant was awarded $16 million while Chester received $15 million. Authorities were found "liable for infringing on the constitutional rights" of the pair. 

"While we disagree with the jury's findings as to the County's liability, we believe the monetary award shows that jurors didn't believe the evidence supported the Plaintiffs' request of $75 million for emotional distress," said County attorney Mira Hashmall, who lead outside counsel for L.A. County. "We will be discussing next steps with our client. Meanwhile, we hope the Bryant and Chester families continue to heal from their tragic loss."

On Instagram, Vanessa posted a photo where she celebrated "justice" for Kobe and Gianna. Check it out below.


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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.