Beasley Allen Law Firm has focused on legal cases where property owners are alleged to have failed in providing adequate security, leading to violent crimes. The firm has pursued claims against property owners when a lack of basic safety measures, such as proper lighting, secure locks, surveillance cameras, or trained staff, is believed to have contributed to criminal acts like assault or shootings.
Negligent security refers to situations where property owners do not take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. This can include ignoring previous incidents or known threats and failing to address them. Courts often examine whether the crime was predictable based on prior events and if the owner had knowledge of potential risks.
One recent case handled by Beasley Allen involves a shooting at Elleven45 Lounge in Buckhead, Atlanta. On May 12, 2024, an individual entered the nightclub with a loaded firearm and was allowed to remain inside. The person later opened fire, resulting in two deaths and four injuries. Among those injured was Mariam “Mari” Creighton, a student from Albany State University.
Parker Miller and Key Lamberth filed a lawsuit representing Creighton’s parents. According to the attorneys: "The nightclub’s failure to enforce basic security rules directly led to this tragedy." They added that the case highlights the firm's commitment "to justice for victims of preventable violence."
Beasley Allen emphasizes that negligent security litigation aims not only for financial compensation but also for accountability and change within businesses and communities. The firm states: "Our goal is to help make sure that businesses and property owners take the necessary steps to protect their customers and communities."
Courts typically look into factors such as past criminal activity near the property, how owners responded to known threats, and whether lapses in security contributed directly to an incident.