Mark Ledbetter, a resident of San Francisco, has filed a lawsuit against a major retail corporation following an alleged violent encounter at one of its locations. The complaint was filed on January 31, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, naming Walgreen Co., along with two unidentified employees referred to as John Doe 1 and John Doe 2, as defendants.
The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred on February 1, 2024, when Ledbetter attempted to return an item at a Walgreens store located at 498 Castro St., San Francisco. According to the complaint, Ledbetter was denied the return without explanation by employees John Doe 1 and John Doe 2. The situation escalated when John Doe 1 allegedly physically attacked Ledbetter while John Doe 2 pepper-sprayed him with such force that it resulted in physical injuries and psychological distress for Ledbetter. "Defendants JOHN DOE 1 and JOHN DOE 2’s assault caused Plaintiff to suffer physical injuries and damages," the complaint states.
Ledbetter accuses Walgreen Co. of negligent hiring, supervision, and retention of its employees who were involved in the incident. He claims that the company should have known about the incompetence and unfitness of these employees which posed a risk to customers like himself. Furthermore, he alleges that Walgreen Co., being aware of their behavior or potential for such actions, failed to take appropriate measures to prevent harm.
The lawsuit outlines five causes of action: assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and negligent hiring/supervision/retention. Each cause seeks general and special damages according to proof at trial. Additionally, punitive damages are sought under California Civil Code §3294 for what is described as malicious conduct intended to cause injury with willful disregard for Ledbetter's rights.
In his prayer for relief, Ledbetter requests compensation for medical bills incurred due to his injuries as well as legal costs associated with pursuing this case. He also seeks punitive damages aimed at punishing the defendants and deterring similar misconduct in the future.
Representing Mark Ledbetter is attorney Corey J. Hankins from Downtown L.A. Law Group based in Los Angeles. The case is filed under Case No.: CGC-25-621997 in front of the Superior Court of California in San Francisco County.