J&J(US:JNJ) Globenewswire·2025-10-28 22:15Core Viewpoint - A jury awarded $20 million to the family of Dr. Alberto A. Casaretto, determining that Johnson & Johnson's talc-based products caused his fatal mesothelioma, highlighting corporate accountability for unsafe consumer products [1][7]. Summary by Sections Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit was initiated by Dr. Casaretto's son, alleging that Johnson & Johnson's talc was contaminated with asbestos and that the company failed to warn consumers about the risks [1][2]. - Dr. Casaretto used the talc-based products for decades, believing them to be "pure" and "safe," while evidence showed the company was aware of the asbestos risk but continued to market the products as safe [2][7]. Legal Commentary - Plaintiff counsel emphasized that the verdict represents justice for families unaware of the dangers in Johnson's Baby Powder and reflects a demand for corporate accountability [4]. - The verdict is seen as a significant step against decades of corporate concealment, with the jury's decision underscoring the need for manufacturers to ensure product safety and transparency [4]. Company Accountability - Internal documents and expert testimony revealed that Johnson & Johnson knew about the asbestos risk in talc and chose inadequate testing protocols, opting not to replace talc with safer alternatives [7]. - The $20 million award is a compensatory damage reflecting the jury's recognition of the long-term health ramifications of the company's products [7]. Background Information - Dr. Casaretto was a physician in Florida who passed away in 2022 from malignant pleural mesothelioma, with evidence linking his illness to the use of Johnson & Johnson's talc products [7]. - Levin Papantonio, the law firm representing the plaintiff, has a history of handling mass torts and has secured over $80 billion in jury verdicts and settlements against major corporations [8].