Chimpanzee attack victim faults state officials

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Lawyers for a Connecticut woman severely disfigured in a chimpanzee attack have filed papers accusing state officials of failing to seize the animal before the mauling despite a staff member's warning that it was dangerous.

Attorneys for Charla Nash filed documents Wednesday with the state claims commissioner that explain why she should be allowed to sue the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for $150 million. The commissioner must approve any lawsuit against the state. A hearing was set for Aug. 10.

The chimpanzee ripped off Nash's nose, lips, eyelids and hands before being killed by police outside Nash's friend's home in Stamford. Nash has had a face transplant since the 2009 attack.

Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen says the state shouldn't be held liable.