Historic $1.1 Billion Verdict for Child Assault Survivor by The Buzbee Law Firm

The Buzbee Law Firm Achieves Groundbreaking Verdict for Child Survivor

On March 26, 2026, The Buzbee Law Firm achieved a landmark victory in a tragic case involving child assault, securing a staggering jury verdict of $1.1 billion. This ruling sets a historical precedent, making it the highest compensation amount awarded in similar cases across the United States.

The case revolved around a young child, represented by their parents Madison Ball and Stephen Sampson, who suffered horrific abuse at the hands of Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr. The incident took place on April 22, 2021, when Brooks, who was then married to Madison Ball, was responsible for caring for the child. Disturbingly, after inflicting severe harm, Brooks called Madison, claiming the child was unresponsive. In a desperate bid for help, Madison insisted on Brooks contacting emergency services, but he refused to do so. Ultimately, she made the decision to call 911 herself.

When emergency responders arrived, they discovered the child had been brutally beaten, exhibiting bite marks on their legs and showing no signs of consciousness. This brutal attack resulted in catastrophic brain injuries that left the child wheelchair-bound and requiring round-the-clock care. Brooks later pled guilty to charges of child injury, receiving a 40-year prison sentence for his actions.

This civil lawsuit, filed in Dallas County, sought accountability for the unthinkable trauma the child endured. The jury not only awarded $291 million in compensatory damages but also imposed $810 million in punitive damages, emphasizing the severity of Brooks’ actions and the impact on the child's life.

Tony Buzbee, the lead attorney from The Buzbee Law Firm, expressed hope that this monumental verdict would ensure the child receives the necessary support they need to lead the best possible life moving forward. He stated, "This Texas jury has shown that we truly value our children. There will be consequences for those who harm Texas children. We hope this verdict can provide the necessary care for this precious child and help them live the best life possible under the circumstances."

The defense team representing Brooks included prominent attorney Daniel Karp, along with other legal representatives from Fee, Smith, and Sharp, LLP in Dallas. The case, officially titled Madison Ball, as Next Friend for B.S. v. Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr., now stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight for justice for victims of child abuse.

The Buzbee Law Firm, located in downtown Houston, Texas, operates from the top floor of the tallest building in the state. The firm is renowned for handling high-profile sexual assault cases and has successfully recovered over $10 billion in damages for its clients. This latest victory reinforces the firm’s commitment to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of society.

For inquiries, contact attorney Tony Buzbee at: [email protected]; Phone: 713-223-5393.