Family of Former U.S. Navy Repairman Awarded $6 Million in Virginia

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -- A jury has awarded nearly $6 million to the family of a former U.S. Naval shipfitter and repairman, finding that exposure to John Crane's asbestos-containing gaskets and packing were a substantial cause in the decedent's development of mesothelioma. Hardick, et al. v. John Crane Inc., No. CL0800723DP/AF (Va. Cir. Ct., City of Newport News).

The Virginia Circuit Court for the City of Newport News jury reached the verdict on April 13, awarding $5.65 million in compensatory damages, $319,650 in medical expenses and $7,832 in funeral expenses.

The jury allocated 50 percent liability to John Crane …