Blake asks for new civil trial in wife’s death

Attorney argues juror misconduct led to $30 million award

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updated 7:17 p.m. ET April 7, 2006

BURBANK, Calif. - Robert Blake is asking a judge to grant him a new civil trial on the grounds of juror misconduct in the first one.

Although Blake was acquitted of murdering his ex-wife, Bonny Lee Bakley, her family won a $30 million judgment against the actor in a wrongful death trial.

Blake’s attorney says it’s not just about the money. He says the actor’s public image and legacy are at stake.

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The attorney has submitted affidavits from two jurors who were on the losing side in the panel’s ten-to-two vote. Another juror says he was pressured to vote against Blake.

But the attorney for Bakley’s family says he has statements from five jurors saying the panel deliberated properly.

The judge is studying Blake’s request for a new trial.