Facts

On Jan. 17, 2015, Jeremy and Rebecca Raines discovered hidden cameras installed in their rental after they had moved out for two months and moved back in. Plaintiffs called the police, moved out and the cameras had been removed when the police arrived. Plaintiffs brought suit against the owner of the house, Daniel Lima, and occupants Leonard Lima, David Lima, and Ester Lima.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS: Plaintiffs claimed that defendants' installation of cameras in both the bedroom and bathroom constituted an invasion of privacy and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendants' denied ever installing the cameras.

Damages

According to defense, plaintiffs asked the jury for over $1 million each. Plaintiffs claimed emotional distress. No economic damage was claimed or proven. Defendants claimed that if they were found liable the plaintiffs should only be awarded a maximum of $2,500.

Result

The jury found Daniel and Leonard Lima liable for invasion of privacy and apportioned the fault 50 percent to each. The jury then awarded damages to plaintiffs totaling $70,000. The award was split with $30,000 for past pain and suffering and $5,000 for future pain and suffering for each plaintiff.