A California woman has filed a lawsuit against several major corporations, alleging negligence and premises liability after suffering serious injuries at an event. On April 16, 2025, Jooley Pena filed the complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, against Full Blown Events, Inc., ESPN Productions Inc., American Broadcasting Companies, Inc., The Walt Disney Company, Hearst Communications, Inc., Ovis LLC, and other unnamed defendants.
The case stems from an incident on October 23, 2023, when Jooley Pena was working as a catering server at the ESPN: Women + Sports Summit held at Ojai Valley Inn. According to the complaint, Pena tripped over a poorly placed cable cover that was obscured in darkness while she was walking along a designated path for servers. This alleged hazardous condition led to severe injuries that have impacted her quality of life and earning capacity. "Plaintiff suffered serious injuries to her body and health," states the complaint.
Pena's lawsuit claims that the defendants were negligent in their management and maintenance of the event premises. She argues that they failed to ensure safe conditions or provide adequate warnings about potential hazards. The plaintiff accuses these corporations of breaching their duty of care by allowing dangerous conditions to exist without proper inspection or remedy. The legal filing outlines two causes of action: negligence and premises liability.
In seeking justice, Jooley Pena is asking for both economic and non-economic damages. These include compensation for medical expenses incurred due to her injuries as well as lost wages and diminished earning capacity. Additionally, she requests coverage for legal costs associated with this suit along with any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.
Representing Jooley Pena are attorneys Stephen McElroy and Josh Dowell from McElroy Parris Trial Lawyers based in Ojai, California. The case is identified under Case No. 2025 CUPO042099 and will be presided over by Judge K. Biaker with Natalie Rosete serving as Deputy Clerk.