McCourt, Dodgers File Civil Suit Against Accused Bryan Stow Attackers

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Attorneys for Frank McCourt and the Los Angeles Dodgers have filed a civil action against the two men charged in the beating of Bryan Stow as part of their strategy in defending a lawsuit by the Giants fan, who was almost killed after the home team's opening day win.

The team filed a cross-complaint in Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday against Louie Sanchez, 29, and Marvin Norwood, 30. Both are accused of attacking Stow as he and his friends left Dodger Stadium on March 31.

The cross-complaint states that although the Dodgers and McCourt believe they are not liable for Stow's injuries, in the event a jury finds otherwise, they should be reimbursed by Sanchez and Norwood for a portion of any damages they are ordered to pay.

However, team lawyers stated in previous papers that they expect Sanchez and Norwood will refuse to testify in depositions to avoid incriminating themselves in the criminal case.

"The (team's) inability to conduct meaningful (inquiries) of those individuals' acts and conduct will hamper the defendants' ability to prepare and present a defense in this case," the earlier Dodgers' court papers stated.

Stow and his children, Tyler and Tabitha Stow, filed the suit against McCourt and 13 team entities on May 24. Among the claims are assault, battery, negligence, premises liability, negligent hiring, assault and both intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. They chose not to name Sanchez and Norwood as defendants.

On Sept. 30, Judge Abraham Khan granted a defense motion dismissing the children as plaintiffs.

Stow was beaten in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium shortly after the game. Police said he was attacked because he was wearing Giants gear.

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