Argument at Glenwood Park Lofts Leads to Shooting

Could the owners of Glenwood Park Lofts apartments be liable in a civil lawsuit for a recent shooting that sent one man to the hospital?

Police say an argument at the Glenwood Park Lofts apartments in Atlanta, Georgia led to a violent shooting. A man was shot in the hand several times and was taken to the hospital where he was questioned about the shooting by law enforcement.

A witness called 911 and told local news that she was outside when she saw an armed man pointing a large firearm in her direction, where a person was running.

According to that witness and online accounts, the neighborhood has seen several car break-ins recently.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

Landlords in Georgia are required to take reasonable security measures to prevent foreseeable crimes and may be held liable in court if they do not. When property owners disregard criminal activity, maintenance, or security issues, and don’t take necessary measures to protect residents and visitors from criminal dangers, they could be creating an environment that invites more crime.

Properties that install visible cameras, perimeter fencing with access-controlled gates, adequate lighting, and when justified by the level of crime, hire a private security guard have been shown to reduce violent crime around the community.

A History of Crime at Glenwood Park Lofts Apartments

Online reviews share the concerns of residents about crime and poor maintenance. “Security here is nonexistent,” states one review. Another shares that “car break-ins are expected here, just a matter of time.”

There are complaints about broken elevators, non-functioning gates, and flooded parking garages are among other maintenance issues cited in the reviews. A resident warns, “You will NOT enjoy living here.”

Only Crime Victims or Certain Relatives Can Demand Justice

Property owners are required by Georgia law to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. When apartment managers ignore violent crimes happening in their community, it can lead to a cycle of violence.

Landlords and property managers must take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes, according to Georgia laws. If an apartment management company ignores crime in the community, it can create a safe haven for even more violent crime.

While the police can arrest suspects and hold them accountable, there is very little officers of the law can do to make property owners take the steps needed to eliminate criminal activity on the property – nor can they compensate the families of the victims.

Only the survivors of violent crime, or the victim's family, can file a civil lawsuit against property owners and managers. Although a civil judgment may never be able to fully make up for the anguish brought on by a violent criminal attack, it can help with expenses like medical bills and missed income as well as provide a first step toward healing.

Some property owners and managers may elect to implement extensive measures to safeguard against other violent crimes on their properties when victims win a sizable monetary reward.

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