$42 Million Verdict: Abu Ghraib Survivors Finally Win Justice
In a landmark decision nearly two decades after the infamous Abu Ghraib prison scandal, a U.S. federal jury has awarded $42 million to three Iraqi men who endured torture and abuse at the hands of American personnel and contractors. The verdict holds CACI Premier Technology, Inc., a defense contractor, liable for conspiring in the mistreatment of detainees.
The case, filed in 2008, faced years of legal hurdles, dismissals, and appeals before reaching this groundbreaking outcome. While CACI has announced plans to appeal, the ruling represents a rare victory for survivors of wartime abuse seeking accountability in U.S. courts.
Each plaintiff will receive $3 million in compensatory damages and $11 million in punitive damages, making this the first time a U.S. jury has held a civilian contractor accountable for the atrocities committed inside Abu Ghraib.
“We believe accountability matters, whether in the field or in a courtroom. This verdict reminds us that contractors must uphold the highest standards, because our reputation and humanity are on the line,” - POC said.
For many, the decision symbolizes not only justice for the victims but also a wake-up call for the contracting industry at large.