TEXARKANA, Ark. - A woman who claims she was seriously injured in March when a security guard accidentally knocked her through a plate glass window during a Mardi Gras party is suing in Miller County circuit court.
Moniqueka Whitaker filed suit this week with the help of Texarkana lawyer Monty Murry against Bernard Jefferson. Jefferson allegedly hosted the party in the 200 block of Broad Street in early March.
Whitaker alleges she was standing outside the venue when a security guard became involved in a "tussle" with another patron. Whitaker claims the guard fell into her during the fray and she was knocked through a large plate glass window.
Whitaker complains that the crash through the window sliced her leg to the bone. Murry said Whitaker was hospitalized because of her injuries.
Jefferson's lawyer, Brandon Pickett of Fayetteville, Arkansas, said his client denies any wrongdoing.
"Mr. Jefferson categorically denies all the allegations in the complaint filed against him," Pickett said. "Ms. Whitaker was not injured by any negligent action by Mr. Jefferson or his agents."
The suit alleges Jefferson is guilty of negligence for failing to properly train and supervise the security guard and for failing to safeguard guests.
Whitaker is seeking damages for medical expenses, disfigurement, physical impairment and loss of earning capacity.
The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Carlton Jones. No hearings are currently scheduled.