Man Files Lawsuit Against Russian Lady Bar in Harford After Assault Leaves Him with Severe Injuries

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Man Files Lawsuit Against Russian Lady Bar in Hartford After Assault by Security Staff

A man who claims he suffered severe injuries during an assault by security guards at the Russian Lady bar in Hartford has filed a lawsuit against the nightclub. The incident occurred on November 4th and was captured on video, which went viral on social media platforms, prompting investigations by the Hartford Police Department and the Department of Consumer Protection.

The victim, 28-year-old Joshua Gilmore, alleges that the bar’s ownership was negligent in their hiring and training of security guards and bouncers. According to his lawyer, DeVaughn Ward, the bar failed to employ personnel with adequate skill and knowledge, leading to the assault. Gilmore was reportedly struck multiple times by staff at the club before falling down a flight of stairs and losing consciousness.

The lawsuit, filed by Ward this week, names several defendants, including the bar’s owner, Jerry Fornarelli, FYC Entertainment LLC, which operates the bar, the club’s liquor license holder, Stephen Leighton, and Lewis Rivera, an employee of FYC Entertainment. Rivera is accused of lying to the police about the incident when they responded to the Russian Lady on a report of assault.

The video footage shows Gilmore being dragged down a set of stairs by men wearing shirts labeled “Security.” After a brief conversation with one of the security members, Gilmore is punched twice, causing him to fall down the stairs. He is seen lying motionless at the bottom of the stairs with a laceration on the back of his head. According to the lawsuit, Gilmore lost consciousness during the incident and suffered a concussion, a fractured elbow, and multiple abrasions.

Despite the video evidence, no charges were filed when the police arrived at the scene. Ward alleges that this was due to Rivera providing false information to the officer about the details of the attack. The Hartford Police Department has since opened an investigation to determine if criminal charges should be pursued.

In response to the incident, Gilmore issued a statement expressing his desire for accountability and positive change. He called on the Hartford City Council to join him in holding the Russian Lady responsible for their violent attacks on customers. Gilmore also thanked his family, friends, and strangers for the support he has received since the video of the assault went public.

The lawsuit seeks more than $15,000 in monetary and punitive damages, as well as reimbursement for medical expenses, therapy, lost wages, and attorney fees. Gilmore’s injuries are described as permanent, and the lawsuit highlights the potential lifelong effects he may experience.

Ward plans to file formal complaints with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Liquor Control Division and pursue charges with the Hartford Police Department and Hartford’s State Attorney. He condemns the conduct of the Russian Lady on November 4th as “downright reprehensible and obviously criminal” and calls for a robust and swift investigation by law enforcement officials.

The Russian Lady bar has voluntarily suspended its liquor license until further notice, following an agreement with the Department of Consumer Protection. The closure comes as a result of the disturbing video and the ongoing investigations.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Gilmore hopes that his ordeal and speaking out will bring about positive changes for others who wish to enjoy the offerings of Hartford. He believes that the support he has received demonstrates the presence of goodness in humanity, despite the dark period he is going through as a result of the incident.

The incident at the Russian Lady bar has raised concerns about the safety and security measures in place at nightlife establishments. It serves as a reminder of the importance of proper training and hiring practices to ensure the well-being of patrons..