Montana

Montana Jury Awards $11.2 Million to Victim of Infant Abuse After State Failed to Act

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GREAT FALLS, Mont. — A jury has awarded $11.2 million to Seraphina “Sera” Wilson, who suffered severe abuse as an infant in 2009, resulting in permanent blindness and traumatic brain injuries. The civil trial concluded that the State of Montana failed to adequately investigate prior reports of child abuse associated with Sera’s case. The jury delivered its verdict on Monday, stemming from a tragic incident that took place in February 2009, during which Sera was brutally attacked by her father’s live-in girlfriend, Alicia Hocter. At just six months old, Sera sustained life-altering injuries that necessitate … Read more

Montana Jury Awards $11.2 Million to Girl Left Blind by Childhood Abuse, Holding State Agency Accountable for Negligence

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GREAT FALLS, Mont. — A Cascade County jury has awarded $11.2 million to 16-year-old Seraphina Wilson, who suffered severe injuries as an infant due to a violent incident in her home. This ruling stems from the jury’s conclusion that the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) failed to take sufficient action during a prior abuse investigation. The case against the state was already established in a previous ruling, where a Cascade County judge determined negligence on the part of the DPHHS in 2021. The jury’s verdict reinforces the need for accountability when … Read more

Grizzly Bear Conservation at a Standstill: Lawsuit Delays Spark Controversy in Montana

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Helena, Montana — A significant legal dispute over grizzly bear conservation in Montana has been complicated by a delay in court proceedings, raising concerns among conservationists and local stakeholders. The case has ignited tensions surrounding wildlife protections in the region, particularly as grizzly populations rebound and state management strategies evolve. The lawsuit involves multiple parties advocating for the protection of grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act. As populations have increased, some stakeholders support a shift in management policies, suggesting that the bears be removed from the endangered list. However, conservation groups argue that such … Read more

New Runway Construction Unveiled Amid Election Lawsuit and Storm Warnings in Montana

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Great Falls, Montana, is gearing up for significant changes with the announcement of a new runway project at the Great Falls International Airport, alongside ongoing political tensions marked by a recent election lawsuit. The much-anticipated runway enhancement aims to modernize infrastructure and boost regional air travel capacity. Officials state that the runway project is a crucial investment in the community’s future. With a projected budget of over $10 million, funding will be sourced through a combination of federal and state grants, as well as local financing options. Airport officials are optimistic that the renovation will … Read more