Dominic Foppoli, the previous Democratic mayor of Windsor, California, has been found civilly liable for alleged sexual assaults involving seven women. On Friday, a jury ordered Foppoli to pay $13 million in compensatory damages. These payments, reported by KTVU FOX 2, range from $6,000 to $4,650,938 per victim. Punitive damages may also be awarded, with that phase of the civil trial beginning Tuesday.
Despite lacking criminal charges related to the allegations, Foppoli resigned as mayor in May 2021. His resignation followed four women’s accusations published in the San Francisco Chronicle. The civil lawsuit, initiated in April 2022, included claims from seven women. Allegations suggest Foppoli drugged drinks and raped one victim several times, including once where she was allegedly handcuffed.
The San Francisco Chronicle notes that altogether, thirteen women have accused Foppoli of misconduct. In 2024, California’s attorney general halted the criminal investigation due to insufficient evidence not constrained by the statute of limitations.
During the civil trial that started in July, Foppoli denied all accusations. He admitted to being unfaithful and egotistical but denied actionable misconduct. The jury also implicated the Santa Rosa chapter of Active 20-30, a male charitable club, for one alleged assault, warranting $2 million compensation.
Traci Carrillo, the plaintiffs’ attorney, expressed that the Chronicle’s report provided a voice to victims who struggled against local political influence. Carrillo emphasized the trial’s role in accountability, validating client experiences, fostering healing.
Andrew Watters, Foppoli’s lawyer, intends to pursue a mistrial over witness exclusion claims. If unsuccessful, he plans to appeal. Watters criticized the verdict, suggesting it was influenced by questionable evidence sources.
Foppoli addressed the press after the trial, asserting accusers pursued financial motives with attempts to falsely accuse him. Additionally, Foppoli faces separate litigation from Farrah Abraham over alleged rape at a 2021 party. Her case is scheduled for trial next year.
Christopher Creek Winery, owned by Foppoli, resolved another lawsuit where a Montana woman claimed multiple rapes in 2020. This article was reported by James Cirrone for Fox News Digital.