Lack of Security at Bar Leads to Massive Fight

Case Overview

This security management case takes place in Illinois and involves an individual who was injured during a brawl at a large sports bar. Sometime in the early morning, a verbal dispute began between two groups inside the nightclub over the results of an earlier football game. Eventually, the dispute escalated into a physical altercation with approximately 20 participants. The plaintiff, who was attempting to avoid the fight, was severely injured when a glass bottle that was thrown struck him on the forehead. It is alleged that the bar, which possessed a late night operating license, failed in its obligation to provide adequate security to its customers, and that the customers in question should be required to go to anger management classes.

Questions to the Law Enforcement expert and their responses

Have you worked as security personnel at a bar that holds a late-night operating license?

I have worked in law enforcement for 20+ years and we had several night clubs with a late-night operating license in this state that contracted with the police department for enforcement personnel.

Are you familiar with the rules & regulations regarding security personnel at Illinois bars with late-night operating licenses?

I am highly familiar with the rules and regulations regarding security personnel at late night clubs in this state.

Have you trained security personnel on the rules and regulations for an Illinois bar with a late-night operating license?

I have experience training security personnel and ran the detail for a nightclub that was attached to a hotel.

Have you served as an expert on a case involving a similar incident?

This case is right in my area of expertise and I am glad to assist. I have reviewed several similar nightclub cases that have gone on to trial.

About the expert

This highly qualified expert has 40+ years of progressive experience and expertise in matters of security and law enforcement, including police services and response, investigations, and management. He has extensive knowledge and practical experience in security and protective services, including risk assessment and threat analysis, investigations, management, the development of countermeasures, crisis management and contingency planning. He has testified extensively in various courts and has served as an expert on issues such as procedures and practices, standards, investigations, training, as well as security adequacy and negligence. He has directly performed in positions ranging from patrolman to chief of police, and from middle management to senior executive levels in private sector security. He has served as an adjunct professor, lecturer and trainer in seminars and workshops on various management and security subjects, and has provided consulting services to many companies regarding security matters. He has authored 8+ articles published in professional journals and has served in leadership positions in various professional associations and community service organizations. He has been recognized by numerous organizations for outstanding achievements and dedication to various law enforcement, community service, and private sector efforts, including the Illinois Police Association, Crime Stoppers International, the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, United States Secret Service, and ASIS International.