Omaha

Man Sues Comedy Club, Claims He Broke Leg While Hypnotized

A man is suing an Omaha comedy club, claiming he broke his leg while under hypnosis during a 2014 show.

William M. Bendorf, 38, of Omaha filed the lawsuit this month against the Funny Bone Comedy Club, the Omaha World-Herald reports.

Bendorf's attorney, Richard Shicker, said the performer believed Bendorf was no longer hypnotized when he sent him and others on stage back to their seats, telling them to use the stairs. The lawsuit says Bendorf was still in a trance and walked off the stage, breaking his leg.

Schicker said Bendorf's injury "continues to be painful for him."

"He was in that zone — that sort-of unconscious state. He didn't snap out of it until he crashed to the ground," Schicker said. "It was definitely a rude awakening."

A woman who answered a phone at the club Monday referred questions to the club manager, who she said was out of town. The manager didn't immediately return a message left by The Associated Press.

Online court records don't list the name of an attorney who could comment on the club's behalf.

The club has 30 days to formally respond to the lawsuit.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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