Norwich Smoker Wins Another $4 Million from R.J. Reynolds

In May, Barbara Izzarelli made history when the admitted smoker won $8 million in a suit against the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.

On Thursday, she was granted another almost $4 million.

Izzarelli, of Norwich, smoked and developed larynx cancer. She sued the tobacco company and won in a case that was the first of its kind in New England.

The jury left the amount of punitive damages up to Judge Stefan Underhill, who ordered punitive damages of $3.97 million on Thursday. That includes punitive damages and to cover attorney fees and other legal costs.

That brings Izzarelli's total award to nearly $12 million.

The Associated Press left messages seeking comment for the company's attorney on Friday and David Howard, spokesman for R.J. Reynolds. Howard said in May the company was disappointed and would appeal.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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