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Sheaves v. Deege Case Summary

Sheaves v. Deege

Court: Superior Court of Washington for Clark County
Judge: Hon. Emily Sheldrick
Case No.: 23-2-00978-06

Download the Complaint HERE
Download the Judgment HERE

Parties

  • Plaintiff: Nicolle Sheaves
  • Defendant: Christopher Deege

Background

This case arose from allegations of childhood sexual abuse. In 1988, Nicolle Sheaves was approximately ten years old and living with her stepfather, Christopher Deege, in Longview, Washington.

Sheaves alleged that Deege sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions. The Complaint detailed instances of inappropriate touching and coercion into sexual acts. The Plaintiff argued that this abuse caused her long-lasting psychological and relational harm, including strained family relationships, difficulty in communication and conflict resolution, marital struggles, and loss of faith.

Claims

  • Assault and Battery (common law);
  • Hate Crime Offense (RCW 9A.36.080; .083);
  • Related claims tied to intentional infliction of emotional and psychological harm.

The Plaintiff sought damages for the ongoing impact of the abuse, including non-economic damages for emotional distress.

Counsel

Procedural History

  1. Complaint Filed: April 2023 in Clark County Superior Court.
  2. Trial: The case proceeded to a jury trial from May 27–30, 2025, before Judge Emily Sheldrick.
  3. Special Verdict Form (May 30, 2025): The jury found that Deege assaulted Sheaves when she was a child, that the assaults caused her injuries, and awarded damages.
  4. Amended Judgment (September 25, 2025): The Court entered judgment consistent with the jury’s verdict.

Outcome

  • Jury Verdict (Special Verdict Form):
    • Liability established against Defendant Christopher Deege.
    • Damages Awarded: $2,000,000.00 in non-economic damages.
  • Amended Judgment (Sept. 25, 2025):
    • Principal Judgment: $2,000,000.00
    • Costs: $663.00
    • Interest: 9% per annum on the principal judgment amount.

Thus, Nicolle Sheaves prevailed at trial and obtained a substantial damages award against Christopher Deege.

Significance

This case is notable for several reasons:

  • Historic Abuse Claims: It illustrates how survivors of childhood sexual abuse can pursue civil remedies decades after the abuse occurred.
  • Special Verdict Use: The jury was asked specific questions about liability and causation of long-term harms, ensuring a clear record of findings.
  • Recognition of Non-Economic Harm: The $2 million award reflects judicial recognition of the enduring effects of childhood sexual trauma on personal relationships, family dynamics, and spiritual well-being.
  • Legal Accountability: Even after many years, abusers can be held financially accountable through the civil justice system.

Brief summary: Sheaves v. Deege ended with a $2,000,000 damages award (plus costs and interest), secured by plaintiff’s attorneys Scott W. Edwards and Sara A. Schirato against defense counsel Josephine C. Townsend, confirming liability for long-term harms caused by sexual assault in childhood.

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