Hog Nuisance Litigation

Background

For many communities, living near industrial operations like large hog farms has resulted in severe quality-of-life issues, health risks, and property disruptions. Krause & Kinsman is committed to helping clients stand up against such injustices, using legal action to address and remediate negative impacts from large agricultural businesses.

Key Cases and Outcomes

1. McKiver, et al. v. Murphy Brown LLC, No. 7:14-cv-180 (E.D.N.C.)
   Residents near Murphy Brown’s hog farms experienced severe contamination, including fecal matter on homes, animal parts around their property, well pollution, and ditches filled with manure. The firm supported clients in obtaining justice, highlighting how these conditions impaired health, air quality, and property use. A three-week trial resulted in a verdict awarding $51 million to the plaintiffs, although the amount was reduced under North Carolina’s punitive damage cap.
2. McGowan, et al. v. Murphy-Brown, LLC, No. 7:14-cv-000182 (E.D.N.C.)
   This case involved a couple residing near a 4,700-head hog farm. For the first time, they filed a complaint detailing how industrial hog waste management affected their quality of life. The court recognized the severity of their claims, awarding $25 million in damages.
3. Jacobs, et al. v. Murphy Brown, LLC, No. 7:14-cv-00237 (E.D.N.C.)
   Neighbors of three large-scale hog farms suffered from overwhelming odors, constant truck noise, and fly infestations. In this landmark case, the plaintiffs won a historic $473.5 million verdict, signaling an increased recognition of the serious impacts these farms can have on surrounding communities.

Understanding Right-to-Farm Laws

While right-to-farm laws protect agricultural businesses, these protections do not apply universally. In North Carolina, where the plaintiffs resided before the hog farms were established, these laws did not shield Murphy Brown. States like Texas, however, offer broader protections to long-established farms unless they alter conditions that directly cause nuisance.

Why Choose Krause & Kinsman?

Krause & Kinsman’s experience in complex tort cases means they are equipped to challenge powerful corporations and stand up for clients’ rights to a healthy, livable environment. They provide free case evaluations, reasonable rates, and dedicated advocacy for clients facing issues of contamination, pollution, and property devaluation from nearby agricultural operations. If your quality of life is compromised by a nearby facility, the right legal support can make all the difference.