Denver, CO — A Denver jury recently awarded $1 million to Early Jackson, a homeless man who faced a violent encounter with concierges at a local luxury apartment complex. The incident, which took place in early 2022, highlights significant concerns about the treatment of vulnerable populations in public spaces.
Jackson, who was returning from his construction job to a Salvation Army shelter where he resided, sought brief refuge from the freezing temperatures in the lobby of the Quincy Apartments. What was intended as a short respite by the fireplace ended abruptly when the building’s concierges forcibly removed him, culminating in a concierge pointing a gun at his head.
The Denver District Court found the two concierges, Kendall Robinson and Greg Landrum, and their employer, NFC Amenity Management, negligent, deliberating that their actions caused Jackson physical injuries and emotional distress. The building’s management provided no immediate response when asked for comment on the jury’s decision or the violent actions by their employees.
Azra Taslimi, Jackson’s attorney, expressed the importance of the case, noting it as a stark reminder of ongoing societal injustices faced by those less fortunate. “This verdict is a message that such dismissive and violent behavior toward our most vulnerable is unacceptable,” Taslimi stated.
The Quincy Apartments initially welcomed Jackson inside, but the situation rapidly devolved when Robinson and Landrum reversed their decision and resorted to violence. Despite Jackson’s non-threatening demeanor, he was never provided an opportunity to voluntarily exit the premises.
During the altercation, Robinson brandished a handgun, which he was not licensed to carry concealed, elevating the altercation’s severity. Complicating the trial was the deletion of surveillance footage from the night of the incident, which the defense argued was incidental due to the system’s automatic overwrite function. However, this footage was destroyed much sooner than the normal 30-33 day overwrite period.
A critical piece of evidence came from Denver Police Department body camera footage acquired by Jackson’s legal team, which played a pivotal role in the courtroom. “Obtaining that footage was key to securing justice for Mr. Jackson,” said Taslimi.
Robinson and Landrum have not faced criminal charges, and neither was available for comment on the case. Furthermore, no conclusive evidence explained what transpired outside the building after Jackson was dragged out; however, it was alleged he was then physically assaulted further.
Post-incident, NFC Amenity Management reportedly neither disciplined nor reprimanded Robinson and Landrum, instead allegedly allowing them to continue in their roles without consequence. This lack of action sparked outrage and criticism towards the company’s handling of such a serious matter involving staff conduct.
Jackson’s injuries were severe, leading to multiple surgeries including the placement of screws in his neck. The physical and emotional toll of the incident has irreversibly changed his life, something the jury took to heart in their deliberation and final verdict.
This case sheds light not only on the plight of homeless individuals seeking shelter but also on the broader issues related to the conduct and accountability of those employed to secure residential buildings. It poses significant questions about societal values and the protective measures instituted for those in need.
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