A case in Central Florida could present an interesting tort claim. Natasha Hall, 17, repeatedly called the local police about her violent ex-boyfriend and her fears that he was going to harm her. The police allegedly told her that if she called again about the boyfriend, they would arrest her. She didn’t call again. Clay Coffner killed her and then himself.

Hall’s mother, Sherry, has recounted the incredible story to the media. She even has a date for the threat of arrest — January 15th. Such an allegation could create an actionable claim, particularly if the call was recorded. Unfortunately, while 9-11 calls are recorded, direct lines to detectives or officers are often not recorded automatically. Nevertheless, we have seen cases where child welfare or police have been sued for taking no action in the face of such threats or dangerous conditions.

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