DaCari Early, 23, Killed in Shooting at The Pines at West Cobb Apartments

Could the fatal shooting of DaCari Early, 23, at The Pines at West Cobb apartments expose the property's owners to civil liability for negligent security?

Police were called to The Pines at West Cobb Apartments after reports of a man shot multiple times. They found DaCari Early in the doorway to an apartment. He was pronounced dead on the scene.

Tiffany Mackey, the victim’s mom, said on a GoFundMe that Early was senselessly murdered and that he “brightened the lives of so many with his beautiful smile and unmatched sense of humor.”

Police have arrested one suspect, but they stated they’re still investigating the scene and looking for a motive. Investigators request anyone with more information about the deadly attack to please come forward.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

Negligent security is a legal term that refers to a situation in which a property owner or manager fails to take reasonable measures to keep their property safe. This could include failing to install security cameras, failing to hire security guards, or failing to properly maintain the property. When this happens, it can result in harm to a person who was on the property.

In the state of Georgia, property owners are required by law to take reasonable security measures if criminal activity is likely to occur. In order to reduce crime in the community, landlords may be obligated to put in place effective security measures. These could include visible video cameras, on-site security personnel, a perimeter fence with access-controlled gates, and even a guard station at the entrance gate or parking garage.

A History of Negligence at The Pines at West Cobb Apartments

Neighbors say recent violence has gotten out of control at the apartments. “I definitely don’t want to stay here anymore,” said one neighbor. The local news has also reported on a previous shooting in 2017, and just two weeks prior to this incident police were called to the complex for reports of gun violence.

Additionally, residents have left online reviews with a long list of maintenance-related issues. “Do not choose this place to live,” says one resident, a common theme among the reviews posted.

Only Crime Victims or Their Relatives Can Demand Justice

In Georgia, landlords have a duty to protect their tenants from foreseeable crime. But some landlords fail to take reasonable steps to prevent crime, which can contribute to a cycle of violence.

Police can arrest criminals and put them in jail, but they can't force landlords to take security precautions or compensate the victims of crime. Only the victims and their families can sue landlords in civil court.

It’s true that a civil judgment can't undo the harm caused by crime, but it can help cover medical bills and lost income, and provide a starting point for healing.

When landlords suffer major financial losses in court, they often feel compelled to take precautions to prevent future violent crimes on their property. This is why it's important for victims of crime to speak out and seek justice. They may not be able to change the past, but they can help to make the future safer for others.

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