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By Canadian Press

Market awarded $44M in racism dispute with Oberlin College

Jun 13, 2019 | 2:39 PM

ELYRIA, Ohio — Owners of a market accused of racism have been awarded more than $44 million in a lawsuit claiming Oberlin College hurt their business and libeled them.

The jury in Lorain County, Ohio, awarded David Gibson, son Allyn Gibson and Gibson’s Bakery $33 million in punitive damages Thursday. That comes on top of an award a day earlier of $11 million in compensatory damages.

Oberlin spokesman Scott Wargo declined comment.

The protests occurred after Allyn Gibson, who is white, confronted a black student who had shoplifted wine in November 2016. Two other black students joined in and assaulted Gibson.

The episode triggered protests against the business.

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An Oberlin attorney argued the school has subsequently become a better community partner and works with students to be good neighbours.

The Associated Press



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