Could landlords with an awareness of the crime occurring on their property be liable in the injury of a man shot on their premises?
A man was rushed to the hospital after he sustained multiple gunshot wounds at the 3200 Lenox Apartments. Few details have been released; neither the name of the victim or any potential suspect. Police indicate that the investigation is ongoing. The apartment complex is less than a mile from Lenox square.
Under Georgia law, property owners may be held liable if they do not take reasonable measures to prevent foreseeable crimes. If crime is a foreseeable issue on the property, these landlords and property managers are required to take reasonable measures to protect tenants and guests. Installing security cameras, perimeter fencing, hiring security, and ensuring that the complex has adequate lighting are all examples of measures that might be reasonable measures to take to prevent crime.
Online reviews reflect resident’s concern about crime on the property One review claims “the police basically live in the parking lot.” Another resident posted a review to discuss security concerns, stating “I’ve been here a month and someone broke into my car. They leave the back gate open all the time for anyone to come in.”
When foreseeable crime occurs that could have been prevented by reasonable measures, the owners and managers could be held liable for the damages. It is up to the families of the victims and the survivors of violent crime to demand justice in the civil court system. It’s possible to obtain a monetary recovery that could give landlords the incentive they need to make the necessary changes to their properties. Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.