Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Following Larissa Garcia’s Death
The relatives of Larissa Garcia have initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against the Palms Casino Resort and an alleged madam, asserting that they did not take adequate measures to prevent her unfortunate strangulation and sexual assault in 2024.
Details of the Allegations
The lawsuit claims that the Palms facilitated escort activities while ignoring clear signs of distress, along with accusing agency owner Jodi Mattinson of human trafficking and unlawfully deducting tips from workers. The suspect, Jason Kendall, who confessed to the murder, has been deemed incompetent to stand trial by a District Court judge, delaying the criminal proceedings as the civil case advances.
Background of the Case
Nearly two years post her tragic murder, the wrongful death lawsuit was filed by Garcia’s family, highlighting the negligence of both the Palms Casino Resort and the local madam. Garcia, a 30-year-old sex worker and mother, was found unresponsive in a hotel room at the Palms on June 12, 2024. After being reported as an overdose by Kendall, medical personnel quickly determined that was erroneous.
Medical Findings
Upon examination, medical staff discovered that Garcia had sustained significant injuries indicating assault. She remained in critical condition until being declared brain dead on June 21, 2024. Police connected Kendall to the incident through hotel and text message evidence, revealing that he had met Garcia prior to the incident.
Kendall’s Confession
In a statement to police, Kendall admitted to arguing with Garcia over payment, which he claims led him to snap. He reported having choked her for ten minutes after physically assaulting her. Following the assault, Kendall left the scene and claimed she had overdosed.
Claims Against the Palms Casino
The Palms Casino is named as a co-defendant in the civil lawsuit, which seeks compensation for negligent security and failure to provide assistance. The complaint asserts that the casino failed to take proper security measures and ignored audible cries for help from Garcia, along with visible injuries on Kendall as he left the premises.
Claims Against the Escort Agency
The lawsuit also targets Jodi Mattinson, owner of the Bombshell escort agency, seeking both compensatory and wrongful death damages. It alleges that the agency was involved in human trafficking and engaged in unlawful practices by taking a substantial portion of Garcia’s earnings. Allegedly, Mattinson was aware of the risks associated with sending Garcia on “dangerous calls,” yet proceeded to send her to Kendall.
The family seeks damages for Garcia’s pain and suffering, as well as the emotional and financial distress experienced by her two children and family members.
