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Judge Upholds $3.2 Million Verdict for Texas Teen in Viral Sleepover Case

The ruling affirms jurors’ finding that the widely shared 2021 allegations were not racially motivated.

Overview

  • Collin County District Judge Benjamin Smith left intact a $3.2 million award to Asher Vann for intentional infliction of emotional distress and invasion of privacy.
  • Jurors concluded Vann’s account of the 2021 sleepover was accurate and determined the conduct was not racially motivated.
  • Summer Smith, mother of SeMarion Humphrey, said she will appeal the decision.
  • Smith and attorney Kim Cole publicized claims that Vann and others shot Humphrey with BB guns, used racial slurs, and forced him to drink urine, leading to a fundraiser that drew more than $100,000.
  • Police investigations resulted in no arrests or charges as the allegations spread across social media and drew public attention.