Grove Adams Park Apartments Site of New Gun Violence

Does the owner of Grove Adams Park apartments have a responsibility to increase security after another injury related to gun violence at the complex?

A man sitting inside his car at the Grove Adams Park apartments was shot last month. This is the second reported major incident of gun violence reported at the Grove Adams Park apartments this year.

Atlanta Police say they reported to the apartment complex where they found a man who had been shot in his head and hand. The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment where his condition is unknown.

Investigators from the APD’s Aggravated Assault Unit report that the victim was shot by an unknown suspect who was firing from the side of a building.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

In Georgia, apartment complex owners are legally required to implement adequate security measures if there is a history of criminal conduct on or near the complex. Landlords may be required to implement security measures like access-controlled gates, a perimeter fence, visible video cameras, on-site security, and a guard station at the entrance to reduce crime in the community.

The good news is research has shown that these measures, such as access-controlled gates, a secure perimeter fence, lighting, security cameras, and professional guards when necessary, can reduce violent crime in apartment communities.

A History of Negligence at the Grove Adams Park Apartments

In February of 2022, a 21-year-old man was found dead from a gunshot wound inside the apartment complex. The history of violent incidents at Grove Adams Park led the Atlanta Journal Constitution to place it on its list of the 43 most dangerous communities in the region.

Online reviews of the Grove Adams Park apartments identify clear issues with the presents of pests and security at the complex. One review warns simply, “Rats!” Another points out that the “entrance gate has been broken for at least two weeks.”

One resident says that they heard children outside yelling, “they shooting, you better get in the house” and warns that “this is the worst apartment complex.”

Only Crime Victims or Their Family Can Demand Justice

In Georgia, apartment complex owners are legally required to take reasonable precautions against foreseeable crimes. If landlords do not address criminal activity in the neighborhood, they may contribute to a cycle of violence.

While the police can arrest criminals and seek justice, they cannot force property owners to implement security measures against crime on their property or provide compensation to victims' families.

Only those who have survived a violent crime or the victim's family can sue property owners and management companies in court. A civil judgment can help with costs like medical bills and lost earnings and provide a starting point for healing, although it cannot fully make up for the suffering caused by violent crime.

It is worth noting that property owners and managers are unlikely to take action to prevent violent crimes on their property until after they have faced significant damages in court.

Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.