1250 Broadway, 27th Floor New York, NY 10001

NO EXIT STRATEGY?

While Akea R. was a guest in an purported squatter’s apartment, police entered and arrested the squatter, and Akea--who suffered from cerebral palsy and "cognitive deficits"--tried to escape through an 8th-floor window. Of course, she fell and was injured, and later sued the New York City Housing Authority claiming negligence (for failing to secure the building, provide window guards, and for allowing a cable to be placed near the window that she used).

Because Akea’s means of exiting the unit was unforeseeable, and was the sole cause of her injuries, both the New York County Supreme Court, and the Appellate Division, First Department, thought case should be dismissed.

In other words, they sure showed her the door.

To view a copy of the Appellate Division’s decision, please use this link: R. v New York City Hous. Auth.

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