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In 1997, Larry Harris of Illinois broke into a bar owned by Jessie Ingram. Ingram, the victim of several break-ins, had recently set a trap around his windows to deter potential burglars. Harris, 37, who was under the influence of both alcohol and drugs, must have missed the warning sign prominently displayed in the window. He set off the trap as he entered the window, electrocuting himself. The police refused to file murder charges. Harris's family saw it differently, however, and filed a civil suit against Ingram. A jury originally awarded the Harris family $150,000. Later, the award was reduced to $75,000 when it was decided Harris should share at least half of the blame.
These laws also vary by state.This is one I've heard people say, but never actually heard of it happening.
If someone breaks into a home or business, and they are injured, would they ever be able to sue the owner, or would it get thrown out because they were injured in the commision of a crime?
Not really.That's still not what I'm talking about. OK, someone tries to break into your home, when you are not home, and they injur themselves without any booby traping on your part (like the guy falling through the skylight) can they sue?