PORTLAND, Maine — The family of a Westbrook man who died after he was assaulted in Portland two years ago has sued the attacker and the bar he was at before the assault.
Eric Benson’s estate alleges negligence and recklessness in the lawsuit filed in Cumberland County Superior Court against William Googins of Gray and the operators of the Oasis bar. The suit seeks unspecified damages for wrongful death.
The suit alleges Oasis served Googins alcohol even though he was underage and visibly intoxicated. A lawyer for the bar denied responsibility when contacted by The Portland Press Herald.
Googins made sexual advances to Benson’s female friend in March 2010. When Benson took offense, Googins punched him. Benson struck his head on the ground and died hours later.
Googins was convicted of assault.
I’m sorry, but how is the bar responsible?
They aren’t.
In response to the bar not being responsible
Liquor establishments in Maine are accountable for responsible service. This includes slowing service at intoxication and not serving underage consumers, which oasis did not do here and has a reputation for. All employees who serve liquor should be Tips certified so they are aware of these legal responsibilities. As an employee who serves liquor I am fully aware of my and my employers legal and financial liabilities if an alcohol related incident occurs and I did not follow responsible service regulations.
Assault for an action resulting in death? He must have had a wicked good lawyer.