Opinion ID: 380054
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Terry Grothaus

Text: 98 Terry Grothaus kicked John Shimman several times after Shimman had been knocked to the floor. The district court assessed punitive damages at $25,000. Terry Grothaus is a Vietnam veteran who suffered from epilepsy from head wounds. As a result he receives a government pension of $4,272.00 per year. In 1973, 1974 and 1975, Terry Grothaus earned $11,095.00, $9,468.00 and $10,414.00 respectively. These sums were in addition to his pension. 99 Terry Grothaus' conduct in kicking a defenseless man while he lay on the floor justifies an award of punitive damages. However, given his limited financial means, we think that $5,000 will accomplish the deterrent effect sought by the district court.