Chimp Attack: Charla Nash Sues State for $150 Million

by Jordan Yerman | November 5, 2009 at 10:14 am

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Charla Nash, still hospitalized nine months after the chimp attack that made world headlines, is suing the state of Connecticut's Environmental Protection Department for $150 million. Susan Herold, the owner of Travis the Chimp, was unable to lure Travis back into the house in which he was kept, so she called her friend Charla Nash. Both women were attacked by the chimp, but Charla Nash received heinous injuries.

Originally, Charla Nash sued Sudan Herold for $50 million, asserting that Susan Herold knew that Travis was dangerous when she called her friend. The new suit claims that the Connecticut DEP should have

Charles Willinger, an attorney for Charla Nash and her family, said they have evidence that the state Department of Environmental Protection failed to take steps to remove the chimpanzee from its owner, Sandra Herold, of Stamford.

In a process that could take a year or more, the state's claims commissioner will determine if there's merit for a claim against the state after hearing evidence and arguments from both sides. The process is separate from Nash's claim against Herold, which is in its early stages.

Also see:
After Chimp Attack, Should People Be Allowed to Keep Exotic Pets?