A Joliet woman is suing Harrah’s Casino and Hotel, alleging the business failed to prevent a known dangerous individual from entering the premises, resulting in her being severely beaten and robbed in her hotel room.
Lawsuit Accuses Harrah’s of Allowing Known Offender to Attack Guest
Dana Bass, 46, has initiated a civil lawsuit against Harrah’s in Will County. She alleges the casino was negligent in permitting Marquel Jimerson, 30, to enter the property unchecked, despite his presence on the casino’s banned list. Jimerson managed to check in on February 6, 2024, after presenting his ID to the front desk staff.
Court documents indicate the staff did not attempt to intercept or monitor Jimerson’s movements, allowing him to access the upper floors and reach Bass’s room. Security cameras recorded his movements within the hotel, but security personnel did not respond promptly.
According to testimony from a related criminal trial, Jimerson forcibly entered Bass’s room, assaulted her, and demanded money. He threatened her life during the attack, stole her IDs, and took cash. Another person in the room escaped and alerted security. Police later apprehended Jimerson, who was hiding behind the door.
Assault Victim Seeks Compensation, Citing Harrah’s Security Lapses
Jimerson has been held in the Will County Jail since his arrest. In August 2024, a court found him guilty of several serious charges, including robbery and domestic battery. His sentencing is scheduled for June 27.
Bass seeks over $50,000 in damages, claiming Harrah’s failed to adequately protect guests and lacked sufficient well-trained security personnel. Her legal team argues this negligence led to her injuries and ongoing fear.
This incident is not an isolated case at the Joliet casino. In 2019, a homeless individual entered Harrah’s and fatally stabbed a 76-year-old guest. That case concluded in court, with the casino’s parent company, Caesars Entertainment, reaching a settlement. Bass’s attorneys contend that Harrah’s has repeatedly failed to enforce its own safety protocols, endangering guests. This lawsuit could reveal whether past incidents have prompted any substantial changes in the casino’s security measures.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
