Georgia Legal Report
(WOSU)
Following a disturbing history of violence, Columbus police and city leaders are now working with the Nelson Park and Wedgewood Village apartment complex owners to reduce crime and protect the thousands of families who call these complexes home.
A WOSU investigation reveals there have been “at least five murders at the Nelson Park Apartments” since May 2016. Despite this, city leaders “have been unable to shutter the complex, which was once again the scene of a fatal shooting [in February].” City Attorney Zach Klein told media, the owners have now “added security, installed new lighting and implemented new screening for tenants, including lifetime bans for some people.”
Mr. Klein also told WOSU, the “Wedgewood Village Apartments in the Hilltop…were the scene of at least seven homicides last year.” That complex is “home to about 2,000 people.” The property owners are apparently now “paying the Columbus Division of Police about $200,000 a year to station special-duty officers at the complex.”
These much-needed security measures will help to protect residents. However, the changes come too late for those families already devastated by violence on these properties.
Apartment Owner Responsibility and Resident Rights
Georgia apartment residents have a right to protect their families and feel safe and secure in their homes. By law, Georgia apartment owners have a responsibility to protect their residents from violent crime, sexual assault, and foreseeable harm. Should an apartment complex owner fail in this critical duty, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or deaths which occur as a consequence.
Victims of Georgia Apartment Assault or Injury: What Are My Legal Options for Justice and Compensation?
As each case and property is unique, victims of apartment crime should speak with an experienced security negligence firm as soon as possible to ensure all evidence, such as surveillance footage or broken lighting, is preserved and their best interests are protected.