Reality television personality Farrah Abraham has spoken out following a jury's verdict that found former Windsor Mayor Dominic Foppoli liable for sexually assaulting seven women and ordered him to pay $13 million in damages. Abraham is preparing for her own civil trial against Foppoli, whom she alleges drugged and raped her in March 2021.
The jury's decision in Sonoma County, California, has provided Abraham with a sense of hope, particularly as criminal investigations into allegations against Foppoli have not led to charges. "My first reaction was, thank God there was some justice," Abraham told CBS, stating her heart went out to the victims and hoping the verdict would bring them peace.
Abraham is among 14 women who have publicly accused Foppoli of sexual abuse or assault. The seven women involved in the recent civil trial accused Foppoli of incidents stretching from 2001 to 2020. A separate phase of the trial to determine punitive damages is anticipated.
Foppoli, 44, has denied all allegations, with his attorney indicating that the defense is considering appeals or a new trial. He resigned as Windsor mayor in May 2021 after the accusations surfaced publicly in 2021 following reporting by the SF Chronicle. California authorities had previously suspended their investigation into some allegations due to insufficient evidence and statutes of limitations.
Abraham's own civil lawsuit alleges that Foppoli drugged and raped her in Florida in March 2021 after she attended a wine-tasting event. She has stated she has no memory of the events and provided police with related evidence. Her case is currently scheduled for trial in February 2027. The Palm Beach Police Department had previously suspended its criminal investigation into Abraham's claims, citing evidentiary issues.
Abraham stated that the civil verdict for the other seven women has strengthened her resolve. "I am just so happy, I am so grateful that seven other Jane Does got justification," she said. She also expressed a message for others in positions of power, suggesting that this verdict may empower more women to come forward.