CenTex CBD Wins Landmark Victory Against Sweet Sensi
A Travis County jury has issued a unanimous and decisive verdict against Sweet Sensi, awarding CenTex CBD $95,722 in exemplary damages in addition to compensatory damages. The case, which began as a simple $3,400 product complaint, escalated into a contentious two-year legal battle marked by accusations of trade secret theft, allegations of corporate bullying, and questions about ethical practices in the hemp industry.
The verdict not only vindicates CenTex CBD but sends a powerful message to manufacturers and legal professionals about the importance of honesty, consumer safety, and accountability. For the Corrigan family, who run the family-owned CenTex CBD, this victory is bittersweet, reflecting the enormous personal and financial toll the litigation took on their lives.
From a Quality Complaint to a Two-Year Legal Odyssey
In August 2022, the relationship between CenTex CBD and Sweet Sensi—once a promising partnership—collapsed over a shipment of defective gummies. The gummies, coated with green sugar instead of the usual red and containing more than double the labeled Delta-8 THC potency, immediately raised red flags.
“When I opened the box, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” said Jennifer Gregg, Co-Owner of CenTex CBD. “These weren’t just a little off—they looked like a joke.”
Testing confirmed that the gummies were unsafe for sale, and CenTex approached Sweet Sensi to resolve the issue professionally. CenTex expected a simple refund or replacement. Instead, Sweet Sensi terminated their relationship and escalated the matter by filing counterclaims of trade secret theft—a move that would set the stage for two years of grueling litigation.
“We were completely blindsided,” said Judy Corrigan, owner of CenTex CBD. “We thought we were working with a trusted partner, but their response felt like an attack on everything we stood for.”
The High Stakes of Product Quality and Safety
The defective gummies represented more than just a cosmetic error. In an industry heavily reliant on consumer trust, accurate labeling and potency consistency are paramount. Hemp-derived products like Delta-8 THC gummies require precise dosing to ensure consumer safety, especially given their psychoactive properties.
“When we discovered the gummies contained more than double the labeled potency, we knew we couldn’t sell them,” Corrigan explained. “It would have been irresponsible and potentially dangerous.”
This safety concern was a central theme throughout the trial, as the jury heard evidence that Sweet Sensi had deviated from standard manufacturing practices without explanation. “We learned that an employee was instructed to use green sugar,” Corrigan said. “Why they did that, we still don’t know. But the bottom line is that the product was defective, and they refused to take responsibility.”
The Legal and Ethical Fallout
The case took a dramatic turn when Sweet Sensi’s attorney, Lisa Pittman, faced sanctions for misconduct. Pittman was found to have improperly contacted CenTex’s expert witness, Wyatt Larew, who was also her former client. During sworn testimony, Larew recounted how Pittman attempted to intimidate him, telling him to withdraw and suggesting he “have a contingency plan” in case of arrest.
These actions prompted Judge Karin Crump to remind Pittman of her Fifth Amendment rights—a rare and significant moment highlighting the gravity of her behavior. “This isn’t just about an attorney crossing a line,” said one legal observer. “This is about undermining the integrity of the judicial process.”
Pittman’s conduct during the trial further undermined Sweet Sensi’s case. She was repeatedly reprimanded for inappropriate behavior, including laughing during testimony and making improper comments. The jury, already skeptical of Sweet Sensi’s claims, appeared further convinced of the company’s bad faith by their attorney’s antics.
The Cost of Defending the Truth
For the CenTex family, the litigation came at a steep price. Over two years, they faced mounting legal fees, lost business opportunities, and relentless stress. “This lawsuit consumed our lives,” said Adam Gregg, Judy’s son and business partner. “We had to put nearly everything else on hold just to defend ourselves.”
The lawsuit also strained the family’s relationships within the hemp industry. “We withdrew from networking and industry events because we assumed people would side with Sweet Sensi,” said Corrigan. “It was isolating.”
Employees at CenTex CBD also felt the impact. “We tried to shield them from the worst of it, but they knew what was going on,” Corrigan said. “Their support meant the world to us.”
Despite these challenges, the family remained resolute. “We knew we had done nothing wrong,” said Adam Gregg. “We couldn’t let them bully us into submission.”
Jury Rejects Sweet Sensi’s Claims
After careful deliberation, the jury delivered a unanimous verdict in favor of CenTex on all counts. They found that Sweet Sensi had engaged in knowing constructive fraud, violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and breached warranty. The awards included:
- $9,994 for loss of benefit of the bargain
- $3,400 for out-of-pocket expenses
- $6,594 for lost profits
- $95,722 in exemplary damages
The exemplary damages—nearly five times the actual damages—were a clear rebuke of Sweet Sensi’s conduct. Under Texas law, such damages are reserved for cases where malice or gross negligence is proven.
“We were just trying to resolve a quality issue, and instead we were vilified,” Corrigan said. “The jury saw through the smoke and mirrors and gave us the justice we deserved.”
Broader Implications for the Hemp Industry
The case has significant implications for the Texas hemp industry, particularly regarding product safety and accountability. Accurate labeling and potency testing are critical in an industry where consumers rely on transparency and consistency.
“This wasn’t just about green sugar on gummies,” said Corrigan. “It was about ensuring that consumers can trust what’s on the label.”
The jury’s verdict sends a strong message to manufacturers that cutting corners on quality control will not be tolerated. “Testing isn’t optional,” said Adam Gregg. “Companies that ignore safety standards are putting consumers at risk and will face the consequences.”
The case also highlights the need for stricter regulatory oversight. “We need clear, enforceable rules around testing and labeling,” said Corrigan. “Without them, companies like Sweet Sensi will continue to operate without accountability.”
A Failed PR Campaign
In an attempt to sway public opinion, Sweet Sensi launched a media campaign that included a paid advertorial and an open letter accusing CenTex of harming the industry. These efforts, however, backfired.
The jury’s findings contradicted Sweet Sensi’s claims, and the company’s attempt to frame itself as a victim only further eroded its credibility. “Their PR strategy was as baseless as their counterclaims,” said Corrigan.
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned
For CenTex CBD, the verdict is both a vindication and a reminder of the challenges small businesses face in standing up to larger companies. “We learned a lot about the importance of due diligence and the value of integrity,” Corrigan said.
The family remains committed to their mission of providing high-quality, safe hemp products. “This experience has been traumatic, but it hasn’t shaken our belief in the potential of this industry,” Corrigan said.
A Victory for Ethics and Accountability
The Travis County jury’s unanimous verdict represents more than a resolution of a business dispute. It is a reaffirmation of core principles: that consumers deserve safe, accurately labeled products, that manufacturers must be held accountable, and that justice can prevail even in the face of aggressive tactics.
“This case wasn’t just about us,” said Corrigan. “It was about standing up for what’s right. And we hope it inspires others to do the same.”
This expanded article now includes additional context, quotes, and reflections while deepening the discussion of industry implications and the human cost of the litigation. Let me know if there are specific areas you’d like to expand further!
