In a compelling legal battle that underscores the critical importance of tenant safety and landlord accountability, Venton Smith and Byron Pratt have filed a lawsuit against their former landlords and associated entities. The complaint was filed on March 10, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, targeting defendants including 57 Taylor 17, LP, Greentree Property Management, Legion Corporation Security, and unnamed individuals referred to as Does 1 through 50.
The plaintiffs allege multiple breaches of contract and negligence on the part of the defendants concerning a property located at 57 Taylor St., Apt. 322 in San Francisco's notorious Tenderloin district. According to the complaint, Byron Pratt entered into a lease agreement with defendant 57 Taylor in July 2023. The suit claims that the defendants failed to provide adequate security measures for the building, which is situated in a high-crime area. This alleged negligence resulted in both plaintiffs suffering sexual assaults within the premises—Pratt on September 15, 2023, and Smith on October 26, 2023—by an individual identified only as DOE 26.
The lawsuit outlines several causes of action including breach of contract, intentional or reckless infliction of emotional distress, negligence, unjust enrichment, fraud and deceit regarding promises made without intention to perform them. Specifically cited is the breach of implied warranty of habitability due to inadequate security measures which led to severe personal harm for both plaintiffs. "Defendants' failure to correct these defective conditions was knowing, intentional and willful," reads one section of the complaint.
Smith and Pratt are seeking compensatory damages for their injuries along with punitive damages aimed at deterring similar future conduct by landlords. They also demand special damages for economic losses incurred due to these incidents as well as treble damages under applicable laws. Additionally sought are attorney fees and costs associated with bringing this action forward.
Representing Smith and Pratt is R. Michael Lieberman from his law offices based in San Francisco. The case has been assigned Case ID CGC-25-623118 but no judge has been listed yet.