U.S. District Court Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell made the ruling, citing North Korea’s “barbaric mistreatment of Otto,” which she says “deliberately caused Otto’s brain damage, which resulted in his death.” The Warmbiers put out a press statement after the decision expressing their gratitude “that the United States has a fair and open judicial system so that the world can see that the Kim (Jong Un) regime is legally and morally responsible for Otto’s death.” They went on: “We put ourselves and our family through the ordeal of a lawsuit and public trial because we promised Otto that we will never rest until we have justice for him… Today’s thoughtful opinion by Chief Judge Howell Is a significant step on our journey. As a family, mother, father, sister and brother, we would like to thank all those who knew and loved Otto, and for all those who supported us and our mission to hold Kim liable for his actions. Thank you.” The ruling breaks down as Otto Warmbier’s estate being entitled to $21 million in compensatory damages and $150 million in punitive damages, with another $15 million in compensatory damages and $150 million in punitive damages – each! – going to Fred and Cincy Warmbier. What isn’t clear is how much of that money the Warmbiers are actually likely to get. But if authorities are able to find any North Korean assets that are actually located in the United States, it’s reportedly possible that they could be secured and channeled to the Warmbiers as part of the ruling.
