Pregnant woman sues grocery store claiming security guard scuffle with shoplifter knocked her to floor

GRETNA – A local grocery store is being sued by a woman who claims she was knocked to the floor while pregnant by a security guard struggling with a shoplifting suspect.

Beverly Odom filed suit against Rouse’s Enterprises LLC, Rouse’s Market and Inner-Parish Security Corporation in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 1.

Odom claims she was shopping at the Rouse’s grocery store located at 2900 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie on April 2, 2014 when a suspected shoplifter was apprehended next to her as she was exiting the store. The plaintiff alleges she notified the store’s security personnel that she was pregnant and feared for the safety of her unborn child. However, Odom contends the security officer working for Inner-Parish Security Corporation began struggling with the alleged shoplifter next to her, bumping into her and causing he to fell to the floor.

The plaintiff asserts she was severely injured in the incident.

The defendant is accused of endangering customers, creating an unreasonable risk and failing to warn of impending danger.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of wages, fear of the possible damage to an unborn child and loss of earning potential.

Odom is represented by attorney Drew M. Louviere of Baton Rouge.

The case has been assigned to Division D Judge Scott U. Schlegel.

Case no. 748-296.