Bayer Challenges ‘Novel Theory’ Behind $265M Verdict

Bayer AG asked a federal judge to toss a $265 million verdict because the jury in the case found no evidence that Monsanto Co.’s dicamba herbicide caused economic damages to a peach farmer’s orchard, according to a report in The AM Law Litigation Daily. 

Bayer said the jury relied on a “novel theory of liability” under Missouri law in finding Monsanto liable. In a separate motion, Bayer called the jury’s $250 million in punitive damages excessive, unconstitutional, and “the result of passion and prejudice,” including a statement comparing Monsanto “with violent criminals.”