Introduction

Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman is back in the legal spotlight after alleged text messages from the night Kimberly Fattorini died resurfaced in court documents. Fattorini's parents are opposing an appeal by defendant Elias Wehbe, who is seeking to overturn a $4 million civil judgment tied to the 2017 overdose death. The filings reportedly include messages discussing drugs and the events leading up to Fattorini being found unconscious at a Hollywood residence.

What Happened

According to court filings cited by news outlets, Wehbe allegedly invited Fattorini to his home to use cocaine, referred to as 'blow.' Another message allegedly mentioned drugs and women at the location. Fattorini's parents say Wehbe allowed their daughter, who appeared intoxicated, to leave in an Uber with Merriman after receiving a text suggesting someone may have slipped GHB into her drink.

Fattorini allegedly texted Wehbe that a friend had poured 'half G' into her drink, a phrase her parents believe referred to GHB. Subsequent messages became incoherent, leading her family to suspect she was heavily intoxicated or drugged. First responders found the 30-year-old unconscious at a Hollywood home, reportedly partially undressed with her jeans unzipped and unbuttoned. Her death was ruled accidental after alcohol, cocaine, and GHB were detected in her system, though police said they found no evidence of foul play and did not conduct a sexual assault exam.

A civil jury previously found Merriman, Wehbe, J.P. Castro, and Monica Maass liable, and a Los Angeles judge entered the $4 million judgment in October. Wehbe has now appealed, arguing there was insufficient evidence to support the verdict.

Why This Matters

The resurfaced messages could play a significant role in the appellate process. Fattorini's parents argue the texts and other evidence presented at trial were more than enough to justify the jury's decision. For Merriman, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing and says police found no evidence he committed a crime, the renewed filings bring fresh attention to a case that has already spanned nearly a decade.

Key Takeaways

  • Shawne Merriman was found liable in a civil wrongful death case tied to Kimberly Fattorini's 2017 overdose death.
  • A $4 million judgment was entered in October, and defendant Elias Wehbe is appealing the verdict.
  • Court filings allegedly include text messages about cocaine, GHB, and the events before Fattorini was found unconscious.
  • Fattorini's parents say the messages show their daughter was intoxicated and may have been drugged before leaving with Merriman.
  • Merriman has denied wrongdoing, and authorities previously said they found no evidence he committed a crime.

Conclusion

The appeal is ongoing, and the alleged text messages are now central to the dispute over whether the $4 million judgment should stand. While the civil jury has already ruled against Merriman and the other defendants, the appellate court will ultimately decide if the evidence was sufficient. For Fattorini's family, the filings represent another step in their long effort to seek accountability for her death.