Nurse sues hospital, security company 1 year after brutal attack

A Palm Beach County nurse, Leelamma Lal, has filed a lawsuit against HCA Florida Palms West Hospital and its security contractor, Allied Universal Security, one year after a brutal attack left her with lasting injuries. The lawsuit alleges negligence in providing adequate security, contributing to an incident that the Lal family describes as preventable.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

On February 18, 2025, Lal was attacked by Stephen Scantlebury, a patient on a mental health hold, at Palms West Hospital. According to reports, Scantlebury leaped from his bed and severely beat Lal before being apprehended by Palm Beach County deputies moments later on Southern Boulevard. The attack resulted in extensive injuries, including facial fractures so severe that doctors told her family her face would never look the same.

Did You Know? Leelamma Lal had served at Palms West Hospital for over 21 years.

The physical and emotional toll on Lal and her family has been immense. She has undergone months of rehabilitation in Jacksonville and continues to require medical care for double vision, cognitive impairments, and heart issues. Her daughter, Cilji Lal, described the family’s fear during the initial uncertainty of her mother’s survival and the ongoing challenges of her recovery.

The Lawsuit’s Claims

Attorney Karen Terry, representing the Lal family, asserts that the hospital and its security provider were aware of a history of violent incidents at Palms West. The lawsuit claims the security contract was inadequate, failing to provide sufficient security hours and armed guards. Terry stated, “It was virtually certain to happen. It was just a matter of time.”

The complaint further alleges that Scantlebury, who was under a Baker Act hold, was medically stable and should have been transferred to a facility equipped to handle patients requiring mental health care. HCA initially stated Scantlebury was being treated for chest pain at the time of the attack.

Expert Insight: This case highlights the critical need for hospitals to balance patient care with the safety of staff, particularly when dealing with patients experiencing mental health crises. The lawsuit’s focus on security protocols and resource allocation underscores the potential consequences of prioritizing cost savings over safety measures.

What Could Happen Next

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and unspecified damages exceeding $50,000. The outcome of the case could influence hospital security protocols and potentially lead to increased funding for security personnel and mental health resources in healthcare settings. It is also possible that the hospital could implement further safety enhancements, even before the case is resolved.

The criminal case against Stephen Scantlebury remains ongoing, with psychiatric experts evaluating his mental condition. His legal proceedings are separate from the civil lawsuit filed by Lal and her family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What injuries did Leelamma Lal sustain in the attack?

Leelamma Lal sustained injuries so severe that doctors told her family her face would never look the same. She continues to require medical care for double vision, cognitive impairments, and heart issues.

Who is being sued in this case?

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, its corporate owner HCA, and Allied Universal Security, the hospital’s private security contractor, are all named as defendants in the lawsuit.

What is the basis of the lawsuit?

The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of the hospital and security company in failing to provide adequate security, given a documented history of violent incidents at the hospital.

As healthcare facilities navigate the complexities of patient care and safety, this case raises important questions about the responsibility of hospitals to protect their staff from harm.