Tommy West Jr. has filed a lawsuit against a prominent substance abuse and mental health service center, alleging negligence that led to a violent assault on its premises. The complaint was lodged in the Circuit Court of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, on January 22, 2025, targeting the Drug Abuse Foundation of Palm Beach County, Inc.
The lawsuit stems from an incident on April 4, 2024, when West was reportedly assaulted by another patron while visiting the defendant's facility as a business invitee. According to the complaint, West accuses the Drug Abuse Foundation of failing to provide adequate security measures at their Delray Beach location. This alleged negligence includes insufficient patrolling by security personnel and failure to implement effective crime deterrence strategies despite prior knowledge of potential criminal activities on their premises.
West's legal filing details numerous alleged lapses in security protocols by the foundation. These include not employing enough security staff or police officers when necessary, neglecting to adhere to established security standards and guidelines, and failing to utilize surveillance equipment like CCTV cameras effectively. Furthermore, West claims that the foundation did not warn guests about potential threats from unruly patrons or take steps such as using metal detectors to prevent weapons from entering the facility.
As a result of these purported failures, West suffered severe injuries after being stabbed three times in the chest during his visit. The complaint outlines extensive physical and emotional damages sustained by West due to this attack. These include permanent bodily injury, pain and suffering both physically and mentally, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, and significant financial losses related to medical expenses and lost earnings.
West is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 from the Drug Abuse Foundation for their alleged negligence leading up to his assault. He demands a jury trial for all issues eligible for such proceedings under Florida law.
Representing Tommy West Jr. is attorney Byron Jackson from Morgan & Morgan P.A., a well-known law firm specializing in personal injury cases. The case ID: 502025CA000572XXXAMB Div: AO.