dailyloe.com – A Brevard County, Florida jury awarded over $14 million to a woman injured by contaminated ice cream. Brandy Buckley suffered severe internal injuries after consuming the product in 2018. The ice cream contained two nails and several metal fragments.
She purchased the dessert from a Malabar franchise drive-thru in Palm Bay. Following consumption, she required immediate emergency medical treatment. Doctors performed surgery to remove one nail and other metal pieces.
The victim later developed serious complications including portal vein thrombosis. Significant internal bleeding also occurred, requiring an ablation procedure. This medical intervention resulted in permanent infertility for the plaintiff.
Jurors found the national franchisor liable under an agency theory. This extends accountability beyond the single franchise location involved. The law firm Alpizar Law represented the injured woman.
Attorney John Alpizar praised the jury for their careful deliberation. He stated the verdict reflects the seriousness of the harm endured. It also ensures accountability at all corporate levels.
The case highlights significant food safety and corporate liability issues. It serves as a stark warning for international food service chains. Proper franchise oversight and quality control are critically important.[]
Source: WKMG
