Defense verdict reached in fraud suit

Type of action: Fraud, conspiracy, breach of contract, breach of Virginia LLC Act

Injuries alleged: $30,000 compensatory damages, $350,000 punitive damages and attorneys’ fees

Name of case: Johnson et ux. V. Bella Gravida, LLC et al.

Court: Fairfax County Circuit Court

Case no.: Cl2019-17643

Tried before: Jury

Name of judge or mediator: Judge Richard E. Gardiner

Date resolved: 2/1/2023

Demand: $184,238

Verdict or settlement: Verdict

Amount: $0 (defense)

Attorney for defendant: Jason Greaves, Alexandria

Description of case: Plaintiffs purchased membership interest in defendant Bella Gravida, LLC from its founders for $30,000. The business subsequently failed. Plaintiffs sued the company, as well as its founding members in their individual capacity, alleging fraud in the inducement, conspiracy to commit fraud, breach of contract, and breach of record keeping provisions of the Virginia LLC Act. Plaintiffs demanded the return of their investment, plus punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees.

Defense counsel Jason Greaves provided case information.