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Mall Security Pays $1.8M for Wrongful Assault
23 Apr
Summary
- Security guards injured teen during unlawful detainment.
- Mall owner and security firm liable for $1.8M in damages.
- Judge cited deficient investigation and company culture.
A B.C. Supreme Court judge has ordered Ivanhoe Cambridge, owner of Metropolis at Metrotown mall, and Paladin Security to pay more than $1.8 million in damages. This ruling stems from security guards injuring an 18-year-old during a detainment on November 23, 2019.
The court found both parties liable for the plaintiff's injuries and subsequent post-traumatic stress disorder. The judge determined the justification for the detainment and force used was unfounded, as the teenager had committed no offenses.
Paladin Security's investigation into the incident was deemed "cursory and deficient." The plaintiff suffered a concussion and experienced ongoing headaches and sleep disturbances following the incident.
The security guards' actions included an arm lock, a takedown, hitting the youth's face, kicking their ribs, and shoving them down stairs. The judge noted Paladin's conduct warranted condemnation, citing negligent training and an "uncaring attitude" from upper management.
Ivanhoe Cambridge and Paladin Security are jointly responsible for $800,481 in damages. Additionally, Paladin Security was ordered to pay $1 million in punitive damages.
