After the attack, Zachary, who worked at Pointe South Apartments in Jonesboro, was convicted of statutory rape and child molestation and sentenced to 20 years behind bars in June 2016.
The security company failed to “properly supervise and/or monitor its security officer,” according to Cheston’s lawsuit, filed against the firm in 2015.
The company knew the guard had acted out against guests in the past but “ignored the circumstances that any reasonable person would interpret as leading to the injury,” it states.
It also notes that the apartment complex manager failed to properly maintain a safe environment.
Cheston won’t likely receive the full settlement — but the verdict sends a powerful message, Stewart said on Twitter.
“Want to know what a victim of rape is worth? 1 billion. Record 12 person jury verdict. Juries are saying no to sexual assault and holding companies accountable!” he wrote.
Cheston and Stewart couldn’t immediately be reached for comment Friday.
A rep for the security firm didn’t immediately return a request for comment.
Article Appeared @https://nypost.com/2018/05/25/rape-victim-awarded-1-billion-in-historic-jury-verdict/