Negligent and inadequate security in Albuquerque New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM- July 21, 2009--     I have been contacted by many people (victims, attorney guards and security companies) regarding the issue of negligent or inadequate security on the part of businesses in Albuquerque and New Mexico.  In my opinion, it has always been a problem but with our worsening economy it is becoming more of a problem.  People are getting hurt on properties that have a long history of violence and the owners/ managers are well aware of the risks posed to customers and employees.  The customers and employees are almost always unsuspecting.

Inadequate Security/Negligent Security

Inadequate security or negligent security cases involve the failure of business proprietors, such as mall and shopping center operators, apartment and residential rental housing owners, hotels and motels, restaurants, etc., to implement reasonable and ordinary security measures for the protection of their customers from crime when necessary for the protection of the customers. As a general rule, business proprietors are not liable for crime occurring on their property. However, if there has been a pattern of crime on and about the business property, or if the nature of the business makes it peculiarly susceptible to criminal activity, the law will impose upon a business owner a duty to implement reasonable security measures designed to prevent or deter future crimes. Such measures may include increased or better lighting, security guards, better or additional locks, perimeter protection and overall improved maintenance of the business property. A breach of this duty is called negligence. 

Albuquerque has one of the highest per-capita violent crime rates in the nation! 

Negligent security also happens when a security provider is hired by a business and does not perform their job.  In many cases, security guards have injured people through negligence which involves not being trained.  In some cases, security guards have received no training and they hurt people.  Security company owners choose to employ guards who have poor criminal records or a history of violence. People ho are injured by security guards often have the following causes of action: negligent hiring, negligent retention, negligent training and negligent supervision.

 It is important to mention that the business has total control over security, its practices, hours assigned, duties, man-power, directives, etc. and that many businesses are scrimping on security to make more property at the expense of their customers.

Have you been hurt in a Negligent Security type of incident in Albuquerque or in New Mexico?  If so, i would like to hear from you.  robb@callsummit.com   

Comments

[Scott Coggins, CPP]

I couldn't agree more. Nice blog article.

[Jessica Ramirez]

I got beat up a a high-end shopping center in Albuquerque by their "security guards." I didn't deserve it and didn't do a thing. I called to complain and the company hung up on me. I filed a police report. What else can I do? Are there attorneys out there who will take a case like this and get me damages for my injuries? I don't even think that this company had a license based on some of your blog posts. Can you help me?

[Robb H.]

I will contact you personally to offer advice. The property owner definitely has a responsibility to you, possibly the security and management company. You may be entitled to damages.