Scarlett Benchley vs. SBE

Case Background

Scarlett Benchley filed a premises liability lawsuit against The Nightingale Plaza after she was allegedly restrained by the security guards and arrested. The nightclub assault lawsuit was filed in the California Superior Court, Los Angeles County. Judges Holly J. Fujie, Bruce G. Iwasaki, and Kristin S. Escalante presided over this case. [Case number: 18STCV00236]

Cause

On October 16, 2017, Scarlett Benchley visited The Nightingale Plaza, a nightclub operated by SRC Entertainment, LLC, intending to enjoy the venue’s amenities and meet friends in the VIP section. Security checked her identification at the main entrance and allowed her inside.

At some point, Benchley attempted to enter the VIP area to greet her friends. As she approached, a security guard suddenly grabbed her wrists without warning and forced them into a restraining position. Without explanation, he lifted her off the ground by her elbows, causing unnecessary physical harm. She had no opportunity to protect or defend herself.

The security team then carried her to the nightclub’s rear exit without justification. Multiple guards physically transferred her between them against her will. Eventually, two security guards handcuffed her, stating she was under arrest but failing to provide a reason.

Without consent, the guards searched Benchley and her belongings. Meanwhile, she could hear other patrons expressing concern, shouting phrases like, “Cover her up,” “This isn’t right,” and “What are you doing to her?” However, she could not see or communicate with them for help.

At some point, a firefighter approached and placed a b