A Baltimore court has issued an unprecedented ruling against Johnson & Johnson (J&J), awarding $1.56 billion to a single plaintiff—the largest ever compensation in the company’s history of talc-related lawsuits.
-
Case Background: Cherie Craft, 59, was diagnosed with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma in early 2024. The jury held J&J liable for failing to warn that its baby powder contained asbestos, a carcinogen linked to her daily use of the product.
-
Award Breakdown: The total $1.56 billion award consists of approximately $60 million in compensatory damages and $1.5 billion in punitive damages levied against J&J and its subsidiary, Pecos River Talc.
-
Corporate Response: J&J’s legal counsel characterized the verdict as “unconstitutional” and confirmed plans to appeal. The company maintains that its products are asbestos-free and safe, dismissing the plaintiff’s claims as based on inconclusive science.
-
Legal Landscape: J&J is currently grappling with over 67.000 lawsuits across the U.S. Although the company transitioned its global portfolio to cornstarch-based powder in 2023, it continues to face significant financial exposure from legacy talc products.