Vermont Lawsuit Says Ex-Wife of Murder Suspect Negligent

October 19, 2011

The father of a slain Braintree, Vermont, girl is accusing the suspect’s ex-wife of playing a role in her death by not protecting her.

The Vermont Supreme Court heard an appeal from James Bennett on Tuesday, Oct. 18.

Bennett says he continues to suffer severe mental anguish over the death of his daughter, 12-year-old Brooke Bennett. Michael Jacques, a convicted sex offender, is charged with abducting, sexually assaulting and then killing his niece in 2008.

A wrongful death lawsuit filed by Bennett alleges that Denise Woodard breached her duty to protect Brooke from the risk of harm posed by Jacques, her ex-husband.

The court will consider whether the home insurance policy of Woodard and Jacques covers Woodard’s defense and damages to Bennett if he were to win the lawsuit.

A lower court had ruled in favor of the insurer.

Topics Lawsuits

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Latest Comments

  • October 20, 2011 at 11:43 am
    southern adjuster says:
    This could very well go to a jury. Appears they are alleging negligence against Ms. Woodard which would likely get them to at least a duty to defend. She gave a statement to... read more
  • October 19, 2011 at 3:03 pm
    Bill the IA says:
    Our legal system is no joke. This type of lawsuit, and the everyday threat of these lawsuits is destroying our country from the inside out. Our litigious society is a MAJOR ... read more
  • October 19, 2011 at 2:44 pm
    flabbergasted says:
    SERIOUSLY???? The fact that this is taking up time in court is ridiculous. This guy will be the one who bitches the most when his premiums go up because the insurance compan... read more

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