Stephanie Petitta has filed a lawsuit against a major hotel chain and its subsidiary, alleging negligence that led to a traumatic incident. The complaint was filed by Stephanie Petitta in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on February 4, 2025, naming Marriott International Inc. and Vinoy Park Hotel Company as defendants.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on April 25, 2023, at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club where Petitta was employed. According to the complaint, Petitta was ambushed by Uzziah Dennis, a known criminal who gained unauthorized access to her vehicle in the hotel's parking garage. She was held at gunpoint but managed to escape before Dennis fled with her car. As a result of this harrowing experience, Petitta has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and continues to suffer from significant psychological injuries that impair her daily life.
Petitta accuses Marriott International Inc. and Vinoy Park Hotel Company of failing to provide adequate security measures and safe premises for their invitees. The complaint details several alleged breaches of duty by the defendants, including allowing dangerous individuals access to the property, prioritizing financial interests over guest safety, failing to warn of existing hazards such as insufficient lighting and ongoing criminal activity, and neglecting to implement effective security policies.
In her pursuit of justice, Petitta seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of earnings capacity, and other related costs due to the defendants' negligence. She demands a jury trial to determine the full extent of her damages.
Representing Stephanie Petitta are attorneys Stephen A. Barnes and Madelein C. Vaughn from Barnes Trial Group based in Tampa, Florida. The case is identified under Case Number: 25-000526-CI in front of Judge Ken Burke.