Tampa family sues U.S. government in wake of D.C. Navy Yard shooting by WFLA Newschannel8

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA TAMPA DIVISION PATRICIA DELORENZO, as Personal Representative for the Estate of MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT,

CASE NO.:

Plaintiff, v.

UNITED STATES of AMERICA, d/b/a DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY, and DEPARTMENT of VETERANS AFFAIRS, and THE EXPERTS, LLC., a Florida Limited Liability Corporation and HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISES SERVICES, LLC (HPES) a Texas Limited Liability Corporation. Defendants. ______________________________________________________/ COMPLAINT FOR DAMAGES AND DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL PLAINTIFF, Patricia Delorenzo, as Personal Representative for the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight, by undersigned counsel, sues the Defendants UNITED STATES of AMERICA d/b/a DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY, and = DEPT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, and THE EXPERTS, LLC., a Florida Limited Liability Corporation, and HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE SERVICES, LLC (HPES), a Texas Limited Liability Corporation and states:

Page 1 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

NATURE OF THE ACTION 1.

This is an action for damages arising from the wrongful death of

deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight whose wrongful death on September 16, 2013, at the Washington Naval Yard was proximately caused by the negligence of Defendants and each of them. 2.

The claims for relief arise under the United States Constitution

(Article III §2 and Article V guaranteeing the right to life and liberty), The District of Columbia Wrongful Death Act D.C. Code §16-2701(2013), common-law, The Federal Tort Claims Act (Title 28 United States Code §2671 and §1346(b)). See Marbury v. Madison, 5 U. S. 137, 147 (1803) ("it is a settled and invariable principle that… every injury [must have] its proper redress.") JURISDICTION AND VENUE 3.

The jurisdiction of this court is vested pursuant to Title 28 United

States Code §1346 providing that the United States District Courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction of civil actions on claims against the United States for money damages… for death caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of any employee of the government while acting in the scope of his office or employment under circumstances where the United States, if a private person, Page 2 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission occurred; jurisdiction is also vested pursuant to Title 28 United States Code, §1331, §1332, §1334 and §1343. Venue is vested pursuant to Title 28 U.S.C. §1391(b)(3) and (e)(1) and §1402. 4.

The amount in controversy exceeds the sum of $75,000 exclusive of

interest and costs. 5.

Plaintiff, Patricia Delorenzo is a resident and citizen of Tampa,

Hillsborough County, Florida. Patricia Delorenzo was authorized to bring this action as Appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant D.C. Code §16-2702 (2013) PARTIES 6.

All conditions precedent to bringing this action have occurred

including the filing of the Administrative Claim by Plaintiffs under the FTCA Title 28 United States Code §1346. 7.

Plaintiff, Patricia Delorenzo, is the Personal Representative of the

Estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight who was a resident and citizen of Reston, Fairfax County, Virginia at the time of her wrongful death on September 16, 2013. Patricia Delorenzo is the sister of Mary Frances Delorenzo Page 3 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Knight. Patricia Delorenzo was appointed personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight by the Fairfax County, Virginia Circuit Court. As personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight, Patricia Delorenzo is empowered by the probate laws of the State of Virginia to bring this action in this court of competent jurisdiction to redress and seek damages for the wrongful death of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to D.C. Code ยง16-2702(2013) 8.

The venue in this court is proper pursuant to Title 28 United States

Code ยง 1402 providing that suit may be brought in the district where the Plaintiff personal representative resides. 9.

Deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight was 51 years old at the

time of her wrongful death. Ms. Knight is the mother of Danielle Knight (20 years old) and Nicole Shuck (25 years old). Ms. Knight was born in Germany to Green Beret Lt. Col. Thomas Knight and Lilly Delorenzo of Trieste Italy. The Delorenzo family moved to Fayetteville, North Carolina where Col. Knight taught military science at Fort Bragg. Mary Frances attended Seventy-first High School and obtained a Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree in computer science. She worked as a computer technician for the Fayetteville Police Department. Mary Frances later became an expert in cyber security after she moved to Reston, Virginia and Page 4 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

began working for the Naval Sea Systems Command at the Washington Naval Yard. She achieved the highest possible pay grade of GS 15 in the General pay scale and taught computer science at North Virginia Community College. 10.

Defendant United States of America, d/b/a DEPARTMENT OF

NAVY and DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS, is a proper party since Article III of the Constitution extends the judicial power of the United States to all actions in which the United States is a party. Title 28 United States Code ยง1346 vests original jurisdiction in the District Court in actions in which the United States is the Defendant. The United States has waived its Federal Sovereign immunity under Title 28 United States Code ยง1346 in an action permitted under the Federal Tort Claims Act. 11.

Defendant THE EXPERTS, LLC., is a Limited Liability Corporation

organized June 29, 1998, under Chapter 6078, Florida Statutes and whose principal place of business is 2400 E. Commercial Blvd. Suite 420, Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida. The Chief Executive Officer is Thomas E. Hoshko. The Chief Operating Officer and Registered Agent is Thomas P. Hoshko. The Company was formerly known as Expert Resources Inc. 12.

For the past six years Defendant THE EXPERTS, LLC., has been a

party to subcontracts with Defendant Hewlett-Packard Enterprises Services, LLC Page 5 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

(HPES) (and it's subsidiary company Electronic Data Systems (EDS), providing services through 250 employees on HP contracted projects with the Department of Defense (DoD) and the United States Navy at the Washington Navy Yard and throughout the world. The companies Federal Solutions Division (FSD) was established in 2002 in Alexandria, Virginia as a provider of mission critical Information Technologists (IT), engineering and litigation professional services for Federal state and local governments. 13.

Defendant THE EXPERTS, LLC., employed Aaron Alexis for six

months during 2013 next preceding his shooting of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight, and during which time employee Alexis was subjected to two background investigations checks by THE EXPERTS, LLC., 14.

Defendant Hewlett Packard Enterprises Services, LLC. (HPES),

formerly Electronic Data Systems (EDS), pioneered the computer outsourcing business. The Company located in Plano, Texas delivers such services as cloud computing, systems integration, network and systems operations, data center management, applications development, and outsourcing. It is one of the largest Federal government contractors, but is also serves commercial customers in a wide range of industries, including energy, entertainment, health care, manufacturing, and transportation. Top clients have included the US Navy and former parent Page 6 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

General Motors. HP Enterprise Systems is a subsidiary of Hewlett Packard and operates as part of the HP Enterprises Business segment. Hewlett Packard is a corporation organized and existing pursuant to the laws of Delaware with Corporate Headquarters at 3000 Hanover Street, Palo Alto, Ca. 94304. Defendant HP is a multinational information technology Corporation specializing in developing and manufacturing computing, data storage networking hardware, designing of software and delivering computer-based services. Defendant HP has provided services in the area of data privacy and security working directly with the United States Congress, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Defense (DoD). At all times material hereto, Defendant HP had a contract with the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide services to the Washington Navy Yard. Further, for six years preceding the shooting of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight, Defendant HP had a subcontract with Defendant THE EXPERTS, LLC., to provide services to the Department of Defense (DoD) at the Washington Navy Yard where deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight also worked. 15.

Non-party U.S. Investigations Services Inc. (USIS) is corporation

organized and existing pursuant to the laws of the State of Virginia and whose principal place of business is 7799 Leesburg Pike, Suite 1100 North, Falls Church, Va. 22043-2413. The company was originally known as U.S. Investigations Page 7 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Services and it served previously as the investigative branch of The United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) until it was privatized in 1996. The company conducts background security checks through contracts with OPM. As of June 2013, USIS had over 100 Federal contracts and conducted background security checks for over 95 Federal agencies. As of 2013 the company is the largest background security check provider of the US government. USIS is a subsidiary of Altegrity, Inc., a company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia and owned by Providence Equity Partners, a private equity firm. In 2008 USIS had over 2000 employees working in the greater Washington, D.C. area. In fiscal year 2012, USIS received $253 million for its contract work with OPM and which comprised 67% of OPM's contract spending for that fiscal year. 16.

Non-party USIS has been under Federal investigation by the US

Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and the Office of Inspector General arising from its defective background government security clearance check of Edward Snowden who unlawfully leaked classified National Security Agency (NSA) government documents in June 2013. The United States Department of Justice (DoJ) has intervened in a lawsuit filed under the False Claims Act against United States Investigations Services LLC (USIS). The lawsuit

Page 8 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

alleges that USIS failed to perform quality control reviews in connection with its background investigations for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). 17. Aaron Alexis was investigated by USIS in 2007 for reliance by the Federal government prior to the issuance of a "secret" government security clearance to Alexis. 18. A security clearance investigation is an inquiry into an individual's loyalty, character, trustworthiness and reliability to ensure that he or she is eligible for access to national security information. The investigation focuses on an individual's character and conduct, emphasizing such factors as honesty, trustworthiness, reliability, financial responsibility, criminal activity, emotional stability, and other similar and pertinent areas. All investigations consist of checks of national records and credit checks. Some investigations also include interviews with individuals who know the candidate for the clearance as well as the candidate himself/herself. In the military all classified information is divided into one of three categories: confidential, secret and top-secret. Conditions that could raise security concerns include emotional mental and personality disorders, a pattern of high risk irresponsible aggressive antisocial or emotionally unstable behavior and allegations of criminal conduct regardless of whether the person was formally charged. Page 9 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

GENERAL ALLEGATIONS 19.

Deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight was, at all times material

hereto, a civilian employee of the United States Navy Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Headquartered at the Washington Naval Yard. NON-DELEGABLE DUTY TO MAINTAIN A SAFE WORKPLACE AT THE WASHINGTON NAVAL YARD 20.

The Defendant, United States of America d/b/a Department of Navy

and each of them had a non-delegable duty to maintain a safe workplace at the Washington Naval Yard. This duty was owed by the Defendant to all persons who accessed the Washington Naval Yard and had a reasonable expectation that the premises were secure from reasonably foreseeable risks of harm and/or death. 21.

The non-delegable duty of the Defendant included the obligation to

conduct a reasonable search of any and all persons permitted to access the Washington Naval Yard to determine whether they posed a reasonably foreseeable risk of harm and/or death to the safety of fellow employees on the premises before the employees were permitted access to the premises. Page 10 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

22.

Deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight had a reasonable

expectation that all other persons who accessed the Washington Naval Yard where she worked also had been vetted, were safe, and no persons would be granted access to the secured Naval Yard who posed a risk of reasonably foreseeable harm and/or death to the safety of fellow employees on the premises. WASHINGTON NAVY YARD 23.

The Washington Navy Yard is a prominent visible symbol of U.S.

power and might. 24.

The Washington Naval Yard sits on 65 square acres and is the

country's oldest and biggest onshore military installation dating back to its establishment in 1799. The Washington Naval Yard is the U.S. Navy's longest continuous operated Federal facility. For decades it was the nation's largest naval shipbuilding facility. Later the Navy Yard changed from shipbuilding to production of finished ship products and weapons ammunition. During World War II the Naval Yard was the largest naval ordnance manufacturing plant in the world 25.

The land was purchased under an act of July 23, 1798. On October 2,

1799 the property was formally transferred to the Navy. At its peak, the Navy area consisted of 188 buildings on 126 acres of land while employing nearly 25,000 people. In December 1945 the Navy Yard was renamed the U.S. Naval Gun Page 11 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Factory. The manufacture of ordnance was phased out in 1961. On July 1, 1964, the property was re-designated the Washington Navy Yard and the factory buildings were converted to office use. 26.

Today, the Washington Navy Yard has about 16,000 predominately

civilian employees who work together with Navy and Marine Corps uniformed personnel. The Navy Historical Center is located in a complex of buildings on the property known as the Dudley Knox Center for Naval History. Public visitors are welcome to visit the Navy Museum also located on a separate part of the property. FORESEEABLE RISK OF VIOLENCE SPECIFICALLY AT THE WASHINGTON NAVY YARD 27.

Prior to the violence alleged to have occurred in the case at bar, the

Washington Navy Yard has been the site of a prior attack on this prominent visible symbol of U.S. power and might. 28.

In 1983, a Puerto Rican separatist group known as the "Armed

Resistance Unit" set off a bomb in a computer center which exploded at the Washington Navy Yard. The same group planted a bomb which exploded on the second floor of the U.S. Capitol Building's north wing Near the Senate Chamber on November 7, 1983. The bomb blast caused over $250,000 in damages.

Page 12 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

29.

This 1983 bombing marked the beginning of tightened security

measures throughout the U.S. Capitol Building. The area outside the Senate Chamber, previously open to the public, was permanently closed. Congressional staff officials instituted a system of staff identification cards and added metal detectors to building entrances to supplement those placed at Chamber Gallery. 30.

These events put the Washington Navy Yard on notice of the

foreseeable risk of violence at the Navy Yard because it is a prominent visible symbol of U.S. power and might.(Complaint Exhibit 19 and 39) FORSEEABLE RISK OF ACTIVE SHOOTING EPISODES AT FEDERAL FACILITIES GENERALLY 27.

Gun violence in workplaces in America has become foreseeable and

not unexpected. (Complaint Exhibit 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7) 28.

Employers have a duty to asses risks of harm, adopt mitigation plans

and follow up to insure compliance. (Complaint Exhibit 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8) 29.

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defines

an â&#x20AC;&#x153;active shooterâ&#x20AC;? as "an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area." The DHS has observed that "in most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims." Page 13 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

FORSEEABLE KNOWN ACTIVE SHOOTERS 30.

In 2010, The New York City Police Department (NYPD) conducted a

study of 281 active shooter incidents from 1966 to 2010 to identify common characteristics. Because active shooter attacks are dynamic events, the NYPD could not put forward a single set of best practices for private security response to such incidents. However the NYPD did compile a list of recommendations for building security personnel to mitigate the risks from active shooter attacks. See Complaint Exhibit 1 NON-MILITARY FEDERAL FACILITIES SECURITY STANDARDS 31.

The Federal government had no formally established security

standards for Federally owned or leased non-military facilities prior to the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah building in Oklahoma City. 32.

However, after that attack, President William J. Clinton directed the

Department of Justice (DoJ) to assess the vulnerability of Federal facilities to violence or terrorist attacks and to develop recommendations for minimum security standards. 33.

Together, the DoJ, U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and General

Services Administration (GSA) conducted assessments that more than 1200 Federal facilities and based on those evaluations established proposed minimum security standards for Federal facilities. Page 14 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

34.

On June 28, 1995, the Department of Justice published the results of

the U.S. Marshals Service review in a Department of Justice (DoJ) report entitled "Vulnerability Assessment of Federal Facilities". The report recommended that GSA carryout recommended security improvements for existing Federal facilities and for new construction. The DoJ report also recommended that each Federal facility be enhanced with a minimum set of security standards based on specific needs. The standards focused on four primary areas: perimeter security, entry security for access of people, packages, and mail into a building, interior security for prevention of criminal and terrorist activities inside the facility and security planning. 35.

From 1995 to 1998 the GSA completed over 8,000 security upgrades

on Federal facilities including: hiring more contract security guards, limiting access to entry points and facilities, restricting parking, installing closed-circuit television cameras and monitors, installing x-ray machines and magnetometers, and instituting closer scrutiny of employee and visitor identification. 36.

In 1995, the Interagency Security Committee (ISC) was created under

the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), whose mandate is to "develop and evaluate security standards for Federal facilities." Presidential Executive Order 12977 directs each executive agency and department to cooperate and comply with Page 15 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

ISC policies and recommendations monitored by the secretary of homeland security. (Complaint Exhibit 4) 37.

The Mission of the ISC is to safeguard U.S. civilian facilities from all

hazards by developing state-of-the-art security standards in collaboration with public and private homeland security partners. ISC standards apply to all civilian Federal facilities in the United States. These include facilities that are government owned, leased or managed, to be constructed or modernized, or to be purchased, accounting for more than 399,000 Federally owned and leased assets and over 3.35 billion square feet nationwide. The ISC is responsible for the creation and implementation of standards, guidelines and best practices for the protection of approximately 1.2 million Federally owned buildings, structures, and land parcels, more than 2.5 million tenet employees, and millions of visitors each day from harm. (Complaint Exhibit 6) 38.

Prior to the creation of ISC, there was no Federal body responsible for

developing government wide physical security standards. These ISC minimum security standards include: 1.

Physical security criteria for Federal U.S. facilities

Develop a profile of the type, composition capabilities of adversaries

Determine the level of security needed for a Federal facility Page 16 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Measure the effectiveness of physical security programs by testing

and evaluation 39.

In 2004, the ISC established physical security standards for Federally

leased space. The GSA acts as the lead Federal agency responsible for the two hundred and fifty million square feet of space leased domestically by the Federal government. (Complaint Exhibit 5) 40.

From November 2011 to January 2013 the Federal Government

Accounting Office (GAO) conducted an audit of 9000 Federal facilities occupied by Federal employees for non-military activities comprising 32 Federal agencies. Twenty nine of the 32 Federal agencies reported that they followed the ISC physical security program standards. Those agencies that "turned a blind eye" to the use of ISC minimum security standards "reflected a lack of understanding how the standards are intended to be used." (Complaint Exhibit 8) SECURITY CLEARANCE INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES 41.

Personnel security clearances allow government and industry

personnel (contractors) to gain access to classified information that, through unauthorized disclosure can in some cases cause exceptionally grave damage to US national security. Federal agencies also use other processes and procedures to determine if an individual should be granted access to certain government buildings or facilities or to be employed as either a military, Federal civilian Page 17 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

employee, or contractor for the Federal government. (Complaint Exhibit 16 at page 1) 42.

Several agencies in the Executive Branch have key roles and

responsibilities in the personnel security clearance process. Executive Order 13467 Designates the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) As the Security Executive Agent who is responsible for developing policies and procedures for background investigations and adjudications. 43.

Presidential Executive Order 12968 issued in 1995 makes the heads of

agencies-including executive branch agencies and the military departments â&#x20AC;&#x201C; responsible for establishing and maintaining an effective program to ensure that access to classified information by each employee is clearly consistent with the interests of national security. 44.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) through its Federal

Investigative Services, conducts investigations for most of the Federal government. OPM provides the resulting investigative reports to the requesting agencies for their internal adjudicators, who use the information along with the Federal adjudicative guidelines to determine whether an applicant is eligible for a personnel security clearance. (Complaint Exhibit 16 at page 3; Complaint Exhibit 2 and 9) Page 18 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

45.

Title 5 CFR part 732 provides for a designation of sensitivity level

which determines the type of background investigation required. Part 732 establishes three sensitivity levels: special sensitive, critical sensitive and noncritical sensitive. 46.

According to OPM, positions that an agency designates as special

sensitive and critical sensitive require a background investigation that typically results in a top-secret clearance. Noncritical sensitive positions typically require an investigation that supports a secret or confidential clearance. 47.

Adjudicators from agencies such as the Department of Defense (DoD)

and Homeland Security that request background investigations use the investigative report and consider Federal adjudicative guidelines when making clearance determinations. (Complaint Exhibit 19, 23, and 24) 48.

The scope of the investigation will vary depending on the level of

access required. The intensity of the investigation increases as the risk to national security increases. 49.

To help ensure the trustworthiness and reliability of personnel in

positions with access to classified information, executive branch agencies rely on a personnel security clearance process that includes multiple phases: requirements determination, application, investigation, adjudication, appeals (if applicable, Page 19 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

where the clearance has been denied) and reinvestigation (where applicable, for renewal or upgrade of an existing clearance). (Complaint Exhibit 12) 50.

Since 1997, Federal agencies have followed a common set of

personnel security investigative standards and adjudicative guidelines for determining whether Federal civilian workers, military personnel, and others, such as private industry personnel contracted by the government, are eligible to hold a security clearance. 51.

Individuals, including government contractors, are subject to re-

investigations of suitability for security clearances at intervals that are dependent upon the level of security clearance. For example, top secret and secret clearance holders are to be re-investigated every five years and 10 years respectively. (Complaint Exhibit 16 at page 2) 52.

Federal agencies also use processes and procedures other than security

clearances to determine if an individual should be granted access to certain government buildings or facilities or to be employed as a Federal government contractor. The executive branch uses determinations of suitability to ensure individuals are suitable, based on character and conduct, for access to government buildings and facilities. (Complaint Exhibit 16 at page 1) 53.

On February 24, 2012 the Department of Defense issued its "DoD

Manual on Information Security Program" (ISP) designated as DoD M 5200.01 Page 20 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Volume1. (Complaint exhibit 44) These standards apply to all military departments, office of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the combatant commands, the defense agencies, and all other organizational entities within the Department of Defense. (Complaint exhibit 44 at page 2) 54. The DoD Manual on Information Security Program (ISP) includes the standards for The Special Access Program (SAP). The Special Access Program (SAP) establishes the standards for designation of classification, protection and access to classified information. 55.

Reporting of "Security incidents" involving classified information is

required by the DoD Manual on Information Security Programs (ISP) (DoD M 5200.01 volume 3 enclosure 6). "Security incidents" involving US government contractor personnel are required to be reported to The Defense Security Service (DSS) which manages and administers the DOD portion Of the National Industrial Security Program to ensure the protection of classified information released or disclose to industry in connection with classified contracts. (Complaint exhibit 45 at page 23) 56.

While contractors may conduct preliminary inquiries to determine if a

security incident is a violation or an infraction, there are certain inherently governmental functions and activities that cannot be outsourced to a contractor. Inherently governmental security functions include conducting investigations of, or Page 21 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

determining fault in, security incidents involving U.S. government or other contractor personnel. (Complaint exhibit 45 at page 27) 57.

The Department of the Navy (DoN) Personnel Security Program

(PSP) was adopted June 2006 in SECNAV M-5510.30. (Complaint Exhibit 43) 58.

The Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) provides that the

commanding officers may grant access to classified information to any individual who has an official need to know, establish security clearance eligibility, and about whom there is no known adjudicated disqualifying information. (Complaint Exhibit 43 at page 9-1) 59.

The Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) further provides the

following security incident regulations: a.

Access to classified information will be formally terminated

when it is no longer required in the performance of assigned deal when duties and/or when the individuals security clearance eligibility is denied or revoked. (Complaint Exhibit 43 at page 9-2) b.

When questionable or unfavorable information becomes

available concerning an individual who has been granted access to classified information or assigned to sensitive duties, commands will report that information to the DoN Central Adjudication Facility (CAF) (complaint Exhibit 43 at page 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9) Page 22 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Individuals are required to report to their supervisor or

appropriate security official and seek assistance for any incident or situation that could affect their continued eligibility for access to classified information. d.

Coworkers have an obligation to advise their supervisor or

appropriate security official when they become aware of information with potential security clearance significance. e.

Supervisors and managers play a critical role in assuring the

success of the continuous evaluation program. The goal is early detection of an individual's problems. f.

The continuous evaluation program will rely on all personnel

within the command to report questionable or unfavorable information that may be relevant to a security clearance determination. (Complaint Exhibit 43 at page 10-1) g.

When questionable or unfavorable information becomes

available concerning an individual who has been granted access to classified information were assigned to sensitive duties, commands shall report that information to the DoM CAF via The Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS) JPAS is the automated system of record for documenting reports of security related incidents. h.

Commands will report all security incident information without

attempting to apply or consider any mitigating factors which may exist. Page 23 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

A command report of suspensions of access for cause will

automatically result in the suspension of the individuals clearance eligibility by the DoN CAF. j.

In cases where unfavorable information was developed at the

local command and subsequently resolved by local investigation or inquiry, commands must notify the DoN CAF. (Complaint Exhibit 43 at page 10-4) k.

The following security issues must be reported to the DoN

CAF: 1.

Conduct

involving

questionable

judgment,

untrustworthiness, unreliability, or unwillingness to comply with rules and regulations. 2.

Alcohol abuse: alcohol related incidents away from

work, fighting or other criminal incidents related to alcohol use (Id at G-12) 3.

Apparent mental, emotional or personality disorders: a

pattern of high risk, irresponsible, aggressive, antisocial or emotionally unstable behavior; information that suggests that the individual's current behavior indicates a defect in his or her judgment or reliability (Id at G-16) 4.

Criminal conduct: allegations or admissions of criminal

conduct regardless of whether the person was formally charged (Id at G-17) (Complaint Exhibit 43 at page 10A-1; appendix E-1) Page 24 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

DUTY TO MITIGATE THREATS OF FORESEEABLE KNOWN ACTIVE SHOOTERS 60.

Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, "Policy for a Common

Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors", August 27, 2004, requires that all government employees and contractors who require routine physical access to government facilities and installations receive a standard and secure identification credential. (Complaint Exhibit 10 at page 5) 61.

Chief of Naval Operations Instruction OPNAVINST 5530.14E, "Navy

physical security and law enforcement program" January 28, 2009, change 1, April 19, 2010, directs the elimination of local credentials but allowed The Common Access Card to be used as an approved level of access control security. (Complaint Exhibit 11, 28, and 47) 62.

The Common Access Card (CAC) fulfills a duty of mitigation for the

risk of compromise to classified information. 63.

However, the Common Access Card (CAC) does not fulfill a

mandatory duty of mitigation for the risk of a foreseeable known active shooter. (Complaint Exhibit 10, 12 and 48) 64.

The mandatory duty of mitigation for the risk of a foreseeable known

active shooter requires a physical screening for prohibited items including firearms

Page 25 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

and ammunition prior to permitting access to any Federal facility including the Washington Navy Yard. (Complaint Exhibit 2-10, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 21) 65.

While physical security of non-military Federal

employees,

contractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visitors and facilities has improved since the April 1995 attack on the Federal Building in Oklahoma City, the risk of foreseeable workplace violence has also escalated. (Complaint Exhibit 1-10) 66.

In 2010, there were a reported total of 518 workplace homicides from

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Shootings accounted for 78% of all workplace homicides (405 fatal injuries) 17% of such shootings occurred in government facilities. (Complaint Exhibit 6 and 7) 67.

In September 2010, the Government Accountability Office (GAO)

issued a congressional report on "Building Security" Federal standards. That report specifically noted "and, like Federally owned space, Federally leased space can be a target for acts of terrorism, violence, and destruction. A recent string of highprofile incidents, including shootings at the entrance to the Pentagon and a Las Vegas Federal courthouse as well as intentional crash of a small airplane into an Internal Revenue Service office, demonstrate the dangerous nature of risks faced by Federal employees in Federal buildings and leased space." (Complaint Exhibit 5) Page 26 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

68.

In January 2012, the ISC issued a report on "Security Specialist

Competencies" providing security standards and best practices for non-military Federal facilities in the United States. These minimum standards include a comprehensive use of physical access control systems, basic physical security countermeasures, intrusion detection systems, access control systems, video monitoring systems, security barriers, and inspections useful for the detection and deterrence of threats to Federal civilian personnel. (Complaint Exhibit 4) 69.

In February 2013, the ISC issued a report on "Items Prohibited from

Federal Facilities: An ISC Standard" establishing a list of prohibited items and a guideline process for detailing control of prohibited items into Federal facilities. The ISC best practice standards identified responsibilities for denying entry to those individuals who attempt to enter Federal facilities with such prohibited items at the facilities entry points. This standard was intended to apply to all buildings and facilities in the United States occupied by Federal employees for non-military activities including facilities on leased or otherwise occupied by Federal employees. (Complaint Exhibit 3) PRIOR SHOOTINGS: FOREEABLE RISK WORKPLACE VIOLENCE AT GOVERNMENT FACILITIES 70.

The following incidents constitute notice to Defendants of foreseeable

risk of workplace violence at government facilities Page 27 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

1993

Topeka, Kansas Federal Courthouse bombing (1 killed)

1993

CIA Langley, Washington D.C. (2 killed)

5/6/93

USPO Dearborn, Michigan (Also Dana Point Ca.)

1994

Fairchild AFB, Spokane, Wash. (4 killed)

1995

Oklahoma City Murrah Fed Building (168 killed)

1997

USPO Miami

1998

U.S. Capitol Police at Capitol (2 killed)

2006

USPS Goleta, Ca. (7 killed)

2009

Army/Navy Career Center Little Rock, Ark. (1 killed)

6/10/09

U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Washington, D.C. (1 killed)

2009

Ft. Hood, Texas (13 killed)

10/21/09

USMC Museum (Pentagon) (Random firings into building)

2010

Las Vegas Federal Courthouse (2 killed)

2010

IRS Office Austin, TX. (1 killed)

2010

Pentagon (2 injured)

2010

Border patrol Agent Brian Terry, Nogales, Arizona

2011

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, Tucson, Arizona (6 killed)

2011

MacDill AFB, Tampa, Florida (1 killed)

12/1/11

Winston Blount U.S. Post Office, Montgomery, Ala. Page 28 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

2/16/12

Glenn M. Anderson Federal Bldg. Long Beach, Ca. (ICE

officer) 10/7/13

Washington, D.C. Capitol Speeding Motorist Miriam Carey

10/9/13

Wheeling, W. Va. Federal Courthouse (Shooter dead).

FIREARMS PROHIBITED IN ALL FEDERAL FACILITIES 71.

The prohibited items in the February 2013 ISC standard were

prohibited from entering a non-military Federal facility, whether or not the facility had a screening checkpoint. The baseline list of prohibited items includes the possession of firearms and ammunition, both of which are prohibited by Title 18 United States Code ยง 930. The prohibited list applies to all facility occupants, contractors and the visiting public. 72.

The possession of firearms and ammunition in all Federal facilities,

military and nonmilitary, is prohibited and criminalized by Title 18 United States Code ยง930. FIREARMS PROHIBITED ON NAVY FACILITIES 73.

On January 28, 2009, the Department of the Navy enacted Instruction

OPNAVINST 5530.14E (Complaint Exhibit 28) describing the Navy Security Program whose primary objective is to safeguard personnel, property, facilities and material and to enforce laws, rules, and regulations at Navy installations, activities, and operational commands. Page 29 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

74.

The Navy Security Program requires Region Commanders to ensure

that vulnerability assessments of housing areas, facilities, and/or activities at installations meet the established safety requirements. The commanders are tasked to establish a risk management process to identify, assess and control risks "arising from criminal or terrorist activitiesâ&#x20AC;Ś." (Complaint Exhibit 28 at page 2-4) 75.

The Navy Security Program prohibits the possession of firearms and

ammunition on board any Navy installation except for law enforcement officers. Section 0306 "Personal Firearm Safety, Control and Accountabilityâ&#x20AC;? states: "unless otherwise authorized by applicable law or regulation, personal firearms shall not be possessed, used, introduced, transported, or stored on board a Navy installationâ&#x20AC;Ś without first obtaining prior written approval of the installation commanding officer (ICO)." The term "firearms" is defined to include "shotguns". (Complaint Exhibit 28 at page 3-5 a) 76.

The Navy Security Program also prohibits concealed or loaded

firearms including shotguns. Section 0306(g) provides: "concealed or loaded handguns: individual state licenses or permits that authorize individuals to carry concealed handguns are not recognized or valid on Navy installations. Under no circumstances will the transportation of loaded or concealed handguns, shotguns, rifles be permitted on Navy installations except by duly authorized law Page 30 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

enforcement personnel or by military personnel in the performance of their official duties.” (Complaint Exhibit 43 and 47) 77.

The Navy Security Program prohibits civilian employees from

violating the "no firearm policy". Section 0306(h) provides: "violations of section 10306 of this instruction by military personnel may subject them to appropriate administrative and/or disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Civilian employees may be subject to disciplinary action or administrative action under applicable civilian personnel instructions." FIREARMS PROHIBITED ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE FACILITIES 78.

Possession of firearms on Department of Defense facilities is

restricted to DoD personnel engaged in security, law and order or counterintelligence activities. Department of Defense Directive Number 5210.56 (April 1, 2011) states: "arming DoD personnel with firearms shall be limited and controlled.… The overriding factors in determining whether or not to arm the mission and threat. Arming DoD personnel (i.e. administrative, assessment, or inspection not regularly engaged in or directly supervising security or law enforcement activities) shall be limited to missions or threats and the immediate need to protect DoD assets or persons lives." (Complaint Exhibit 24 at ¶ 4(b) at page 2) Page 31 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

FIREARMS PROHIBITED ON ARMY FACILITIES 79.

Possession of firearms and ammunition on Army facilities are

permitted only by law enforcement and security personnel and others who are specifically authorized. (Complaint Exhibit 20, 22 and 25) 80.

Army Regulation 190-14 (effective April 12, 1993) implements

applicable portions of Department of Defense Directive 5210.56. Army policy provides: "the authorization to carry firearms will be issued only to qualified personnel when there is a reasonable expectation that life or Department of the Army (DA) assets will be jeopardized if firearms are not carried." (Complaint Exhibit 25 at ¶ 1-5(a)) 81.

Army Regulation 190-14§2-8 prohibits carrying of concealed firearms

by military or civilian personnel unless performing law enforcement or security duties. 82.

Army Regulation 190-14§2-7 prohibits authorizing certain persons

from carrying firearms including (1) those exhibiting unsuitable behavior; (2) those with disqualifying medical conditions, traits or behavioral characteristics; (3) those who security clearance has been revoked or denied; (4) those taking drugs or medications that may impair reaction or judgment."

Page 32 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

FIREARMS PROHIBITED IN COURTHOUSES 83.

Federal courthouses enjoy the highest level Interagency Security

Committee (ISC) security designation ("very high") because they are prominent symbols of US power and authority. As such prominent symbols of US power, DOJ data on potential threats against court personnel and individuals involved in the judicial process show a steady rise in recent years. (Complaint Exhibit 34 at page 8) 84.

The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is the primary provider

of court security services to the Federal judiciary and over 400 US Federal court facilities nationwide. Some security services are also provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Protective Service (FPS). The two main security services provided are (1) court security officers, and (2) security systems and equipment including x-ray machines surveillance cameras, duress alarms, and judicial chambers entry control devices. (Complaint Exhibit 30 at page i) 85.

The possession of guns, firearms and ammunition is absolutely

prohibited on Federal facilities including Courthouses. Title 18 United States Code ยง930; DHS Federal Protective Service Directive Number 15.9.3.1 "Prohibited Items Program" (12-10-12) (Complaint Exhibit 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 and 34) 86.

The USMS relies upon the use of security screening equipment such

as metal detectors and x-ray machines at Courthouse facilities to mitigate the risk Page 33 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

of harm by preventing the introduction of weapons, ammunition, explosives and other prohibited items. (Complaint Exhibit 30 at pages iv and 6) 87.

The escalation of improved judicial security has been prompted by

events such as the following: a.

(2005) Family Members of a Federal Judge Murdered in

(2005) A Judge, Court Reporter and Sheriffs Deputy killed at

Chicago.

the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta, Georgia c.

(2006) A Nevada State Judge in Reno shot in his office by

(2009) Plan to bomb the Paul Findley Federal Courthouse in

sniper.

Springfield, Illinois thwarted. e.

(2010) Deputy U.S. Marshal killed at the Lloyd D. George U.S.

Courthouse in Las Vegas. f.

(2011) Shooting of judge's assistant in the Crawford County,

Arkansas Courthouse g.

(2011) Shooting of County attorney in Grand Marais County,

Minnesota Courthouse h.

(2012) Shooting a police officer and bystander at the Tulsa,

Oklahoma Courthouse Page 34 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

(2013) Shooting of two witnesses and to law enforcement

officers at the New Castle County, Delaware Courthouse j.

(2013) Shooting of two litigants at the Chesterfield County,

South Carolina Courthouse Congressional Research Service (CRS) report of March 24, 2010 entitled "Federal Building and Facility Security" (Complaint Exhibit 33) 88.

The number of violent incidents targeting the judiciary has increased

dramatically in recent years. At the Federal level, The U.S. Marshals Service Center for Judicial Security reports the number of judicial threat investigations has increased from 592 cases in fiscal year 2003 to 1258 cases by the end of fiscal year 2011. (Complaint Exhibit 31) 89. At the state and local levels, the Center for Judicial and Executive Security (CJES) research data show that 199 incidents (shootings, bombings and arson attacks) have occurred in state courts from 1970 through 2009:20 during 1970-79; 37 during 1980-89; 64 during 1990-99; and 78 during 2000-09. In addition CJES as documented 11 state courthouse incidents for 2010 and 13 incidents for 2011. (Complaint Exhibit 31) 90.

The District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals requires all visitors

to Federal Courthouses to undergo a security screening that includes the following: Page 35 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Show a photo ID issued by a government agency such as

drivers license or bar identification card b.

Place your purse, briefcase, backpack, electronic devices, and

any other item that you are carrying on an x-ray machine to be screened c.

Remove keys, coins, wallet and all other items in your pockets

before walking through a magnetometer d.

You may be asked to remove your belt, watch, jewelry and

shoes (Complaint Exhibit 32) FIREARMS PROHIBITED IN AIRPORTS AND AIRPLANES 91.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is an agency of the

U.S. Department of Homeland Security vested with the responsibility for security in all modes of transportation including civil aviation security. Title 49 United States Code ยง114(d). The TSA is responsible for day-to-day Federal security screening operations for passenger air transportation at all airports in the United States where screening is required. (Complaint Exhibit 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 and 41) 92.

Screening is required by statute of all passengers and property

including United States mail, cargo, carry-on and checked baggage and other articles that will be carried aboard a passenger aircraft operated by an air carrier or Page 36 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

foreign air carrier in air transportation or in intra-state air transportation. Title 49 United States Code ยง44901(a); 49 CFR 1540.107 93.

By Federal Statute, anyone seeking to board a commercial airline

flight must be screened by the TSA in order to ensure he is not "carrying unlawfully a dangerous weapon, explosive or other destructive substance." Title 49 United States Code ยง44901(a), 44902(a) (1). The Congress has generally left it to the agency to prescribe the details of the screening process, which the TSA has documented in a set of standard operating procedures not available to the public. Electronic Privacy Information Center v United States Department of Homeland Security, 653 F.3d 1(DC Cir 2011) 94.

The possession of firearms, weapons, ammunition, explosives, or

incendiaries is prohibited by any individual "when performance has begun of the inspection of the individuals person" or "when the individual is attempting to board or on board an aircraft for which screening is conducted". 49 CFR 1540.111(a) This does not apply to law enforcement officers or other authorized persons. 95.

The TSA is responsible for security screening of passengers and

baggage at over 450 airports in the United States that facilitate air travel for 1.8 million people per day. In 2011 TSA officers intercepted more than 125,000 prohibited items at airport checkpoints of which 1,300 were firearms. (Complaint exhibit 38) Page 37 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

96.

The security screening of TSA passengers has not substantially

interfered with interstate air travel. Each year TSA accommodates nearly 640,000,000 aviation passengers. (Complaint exhibit 37) FIREARMS PROHIBITED IN OTHER PROMINENT PLACES OF US POWER AND AUTHORITY IN WASHINGTON DC 97.

Other prominent places of U.S. power and authority in Washington

D.C. prohibit the possession of firearms and ammunition on the premises and routinely use commonly employed screening devices to detect and intercept firearms including: a.

The United States Capitol and all supporting office buildings.

The White House

The Supreme Court

Nationals Park-Washington Nationals Baseball Stadium

(located in the same neighborhood as the Washington Navy Yard) e.

The Smithsonian Museum and Mount Vernon

FEDEX Washington Redskins Football Stadium

The FBI Building

CIA Headquarters in Langley, Virginia

Newseum

Page 38 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

All Federal Civilian Departments and Agencies of the Federal

Government in the greater metropolitan Washington D.C. area. l.

The Pentagon

The Verizon Center in Washington D.C.

Washington Monument

Library of Congress

The Washington Post

Washington Embassies of leading G-20 countries.

Washington D.C. Network Television stations

Union Station prior to boarding AMTRAK trains

All Federal Courthouses

Fairfax County, VA and Montgomery County, MD

Courthouses. v.

Flight boarding gates at Washington National Airport, Dulles

Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Airport, Thurgood Marshall BWI Airport. w.

Washington DC Government Buildings.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Headquarters

Building. y.

National Archives Building Page 39 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

FORSEEABLE THREAT OF KNOWN ACTIVE SHOOTER 98.

In April 2013 the ISC issued an update report of data from its 1998

publication "Dealing with Workplace Violence: A Guide for Agency Planners". The data reported was intended to assist security planners for all buildings and facilities in the United States occupied by Federal employees for nonmilitary activities. The conclusion drawn by the ISC from this data was "no workplace is immune, and any government facility can serve as the setting for an incident of workplace violence." (Complaint Exhibit 6) 99.

The ISC report of April 2013, categorized 4 acts of workplace

violence that was foreseeable and preventable by following ISC minimum security standards. One of the foreseeable acts was "employee-on-employee" violence in which "the perpetrator is a current or former agency employee who attacks or threatens another current or former employee (s) in the workplace." Use of ISC minimum security standards in a government facility "can enhance the degree of deterrence against an act of workplace violence as well as the degree of mitigation should an act of violence occur." (Complaint Exhibit 7) 100. Also in April 2013, the ISC issued a report on "Best Practices for Armed Security Officers in Federal Facilities" containing a set of minimum mitigation standards to be applied to all contract armed security officers working in buildings and facilities in the United States occupied by Federal employees for Page 40 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

non-military activities. This report set forth best practices and minimum standards for hiring, training and staffing levels for an armed security force in Federal facilities required to adequately secure all buildings and facilities in the United States occupied by Federal employees for non-military activities including owned and leased facilities. (Complaint Exhibit 2) NON-DELEGABLE DUTY TO MAINTAIN A SAFE WORKPLACE AT THE WASHINGTON NAVAL YARD 101. The Defendant, United States of America d/b/a Department of Navy and each of them have a non-delegable duty to maintain a safe workplace at the Washington Navy Yard. This duty was owed by the Defendant to all persons who accessed the Washington Navy Yard including Plaintiff and who had a reasonable expectation that the premises were secure from reasonably foreseeable risks of harm and/or death including active shooters. 102. The non-delegable duty of the Defendant included the obligation to conduct a reasonable screening and/or search of any and all persons permitted to access the Washington Navy Yard to determine whether they posed a reasonably foreseeable risk of harm and/or death to the safety of fellow employees on the premises before the employees were permitted access to the premises.

Page 41 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

NOTICE TO DEFENDANTS OF FORSEEABLE RISK OF DANGER POSED BY KNOWN ACTIVE SHOOTER AARON ALEXIS 103. Aaron Alexis’ government contractor employer THE EXPERTS, LLC., Inc., assigned employee Alexis to work as a computer refresher technician at the Newport, Rhode Island Naval Station during the first week of August 2013. 104. In August 2013, Police officers in Newport, Rhode Island warned the U.S. Navy that Aaron Alexis was hallucinating and hearing voices, and security officials at the Newport Naval Station where he worked promised to look into the matter. (Complaint Exhibit 51 ) 105. During the time that he worked at the Newport Naval Station, Alexis lived at the Newport Marriott Hotel. 106. Newport Police officers had faxed a copy of their report to the Newport Naval Station after Alexis told them on August 7, 2013, that he was being threatened by unseen people and feared that “some sort of microwave machine” was penetrating his body. 107. On August 7, 2013, Alexis was restless, mentally unstable, suffering auditory hallucinations, paranoia, and sleep deprivation. 108. Newport Police faxed their report to the Navy an hour after the police spoke with Alexis. The Navy told the Newport Police that they would follow up on it. Navy security agents received and reviewed the police report but decided Alexis Page 42 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

was not a threat to the institution or himself. The Navy did not try to personally interview Alexis or revoke his security clearance. Nor did the Navy contact Alexis’ employer THE EXPERTS, LLC., for a status report. The Navy breached its duty to ministerally follow its own policies and procedures requiring follow up of those warning signs, including the following: 1.

Failure of the Navy to recognize the Newport Police Report to

be a “security incident/adverse information” under the Navy personnel security program (PSP) or other applicable Navy instructions. 2.

Failure of the Navy to immediately report the “security

incident/adverse information” to the DoN central adjudication facility (CAF) or other applicable Navy facility responsible to receive “security incident/adverse information” reports. 3.

Failure of the Navy to immediately report the “security

incident/adverse information” to the commanding officer of the Newport Navy Station or other Navy officer responsible to receive “security incident/adverse information” reports. 4.

Failure of the Navy to immediately report the “security

incident/adverse information” to the DoN CENTRAL ADJUDICATION FACILITY (CAF) via the Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS) or other Navy Facility responsible to receive “security incident/adverse information” Page 43 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

reports 5.

Failure of the Navy to report all of the

“security

incident/adverse information” information to the DoN Central Adjudication Facility (CAF) via the JPAS, or other Navy facility responsible to receive “security incident/adverse information” reports, without attempting to apply or consider any mitigating factors which may exist. 6.

Failure of the Navy to investigate the “security incident/adverse

information” 7.

Failure of the Navy DoN, CAF, or other Navy facility

responsible to cause suspension, revocation of security clearance eligibility, to cause and automatic suspension of Aaron Alexis clearance eligibility (including Common Access Card (CAC) upon receipt and review of the “security incident/adverse information”. 8.

Failure of the Navy to take appropriate action after an

appropriate investigation of the “security incident/adverse information”. 109. While in Newport, Rhode Island Alexis contacted human resources department for his employer, THE EXPERTS, LLC., multiple times to complain about hearing voices in his hotel room. THE EXPERTS, LLC., employees thought Alexis was referring to actual voices, and moved him to new hotels twice. 110. The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ treated Alexis on August 23, Page 44 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

2013, in the emergency room at the VA Medical Center in Providence, R.I. “complaining of insomnia.” Actually he was delusional. He was given a “small amount” of medicine to help him sleep and instructed to see his primary care provider. Five days later he received a small refill from the emergency room at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. ALEXIS PRESENTS FORSEEABLE RISK OF HARM 111. On September 16, 2013, Aaron Alexis presented a reasonably foreseeable unreasonable risk of harm and/or death to the safety of fellow employees at the Washington Navy Yard which was foreseeable by the Defendants and each of them. 112. On and prior to Aaron Alexis gaining access to the Washington Navy Yard on September 16, 2013, Defendants and each of them knew or reasonably should have known the following facts which posed a reasonably foreseeable risk of harm and/or death to the safety of fellow employees on the premises including: a.

Aaron Alexis was not qualified to possess a top-secret security

Aaron Alexis posed a reasonably foreseeable risk of harm

clearance.

and/or death to the safety of fellow employees.

Page 45 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Aaron Alexis had exhibited a pattern of high risk irresponsible,

aggressive, antisocial and emotionally unstable behavior. d.

Aaron Alexis had demonstrated a history or pattern of criminal

activity that created doubt about his judgment, reliability and trustworthiness. e.

In 2004, Aaron Alexis shot the rear tires of the vehicle owned

by a construction worker doing work in the Seattle neighborhood where he lived. Alexis told police he had an anger fueled "blackout" and that his rampage was prompted by his fellow workers who "mocked" and "disrespected" him. See Exhibit 1 attached hereto entitled Seattle Police Department "incident report" dated May 6, 2004. f.

Aaron Alexis' father told New York Police that Alexis had

anger management problems associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). g.

Alexis was arrested at least once in 2010 for firing a gun

through the ceiling of his apartment because he thought the resident who lived above him was causing too much noise and disturbance. The Tarrant County District Attorney's Office in Ft. Worth, TX did not pursue criminal charges

Page 46 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

because "it was determined that Aaron Alexis was cleaning a gun in his apartment when it accidentally went off but no one was injured." (Complaint Exhibit 50) h.

Aaron Alexis routinely complained about lack of jobs and

money and liked to cavalierly and routinely carry an unpermitted 45 caliber pistol in his belt. i.

Aaron Alexis had a quick temper and caused police to respond

to a disturbance when he punched a man in the nose over an argument about a girl in DeKalb County, Ga. j.

During 2012, while Alexis was working for THE EXPERTS,

LLC., he constantly and angrily complained that the company had not paid him in weeks and he was having trouble paying for his car to be fixed. k.

In August 2013, a Newport, Rhode Island Police Report

showed that Alexis told people he was hearing voices in a hotel while they are on a business trip. He also reported that he was being "zapped" with microwaves from unseen adversaries trying to prevent him from sleeping. l.

Before September 2013, Alexis had been sent by THE

EXPERTS, LLC., to military installations in Lytle Creek Virginia, Newport Rhode Island, Cherry Point North Carolina and later to Washington, D.C. Page 47 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

THE EXPERTS, LLC., acknowledged that it took Alexis off

his Newport Rhode Island assignment "for a few days rest" after he reported that he was hearing voices and being bombarded with microwaves. The company moved Alexis from hotel to hotel but did not have Alexis professionally evaluated by psychiatrists. Eventually, the company allowed him to return to work even though he demonstrated these psychotic behaviors and never received treatment for them. n.

THE EXPERTS, LLC., finally moved Alexis from Rhode

Island to the Washington Navy Yard where he was permitted access with a topsecret security clearance pass. o.

THE EXPERTS, LLC., knew that Alexis held a delusional

belief that he was being controlled or influenced by low-frequency electromagnetic waves p.

On September 14, 2013, two days before the fatal shooting at

the Washington Navy Yard, Alexis bought a shotgun and ammunition in Lorton Virginia. Alexis sawed off the stock and barrel of the shotgun and carved into the gun the words "my ELF weapon" and "end to the torment!" ELF refers to "extremely low-frequency" in Navy submarine communications.

Page 48 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Aaron Alexis carries an undetected firearm and many rounds of

live ammunition onto Washington Navy Yard. ALEXISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FIRST ARREST r.

In 2004, Aaron Alexis shot the rear tires of the vehicle owned

by a construction worker doing work in the Seattle neighborhood where Alexis lived. Alexis told police he had an anger fueled "blackout" and that his rampage was prompted by his fellow workers who "mocked" and "disrespected" him. s.

Aaron Alexis' father told New York Police that Alexis had

angered management problems associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD). t.

From 2008 to 2011, Aaron Alexis served with Fleet Logistics

Support Squadron 46 at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. Alexis was an Aviation Electrician's Mate Third Class who worked on C40's, a military version of the Boeing 737 that the Navy uses as a cargo plane.

ALEXISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SECOND ARREST u.

On September 23, 2008, Alexis received a Non-Judicial

Punishment for unauthorized absence that included forfeiture of one-half day of pay per month for two months and a reduction of one pay grade. Both were Page 49 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

suspended. Alexis was absent because he was in jail August 10-11 in DeKalb County, GA., following an arrest for disorderly conduct outside a nightclub. The incident stayed on his service record from that date forward. v.

On July 12, 2009, Alexis received a second non-judicial

punishment for being drunk and disorderly and was reduced one pay grade. This Non-Judicial Punishment was due to Alexis leaping off stairs and breaking his ankle while reportedly intoxicated. There was no police involvement. Alexis appealed. ALEXISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; THIRD ARREST w.

On September 5, 2010, Alexis was arrested in Fort Worth, TX.

for discharging a firearm in his residence the previous day. According to law enforcement documents, Alexis said he accidentally discharged the firearm while cleaning it. No charges were filed. After his arrest, Alexisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Commanding Officer initiated proceedings to administratively separate him from the Navy. But when Alexis was not charged for unlawfully discharging a firearm, the proceedings were halted (Complaint Exhibit 50). SHOOTER AARON ALEXIS' EMPLOYMENT HISTORY 113. Shooter Aaron Alexis was born May 9, 1979, in New York City in the Queensborough. He grew up in Brooklyn. 114. When employed by the Navy from 2007 to 2011, shooter Alexis Page 50 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

worked as an aviation electrician's mate third class whose work focused on nonavionics electrical systems of Navy aircraft. 115. From 2008 to 2011, Shooter Alexis Served with Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 46 at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Fort Worth, Texas. Alexis worked on C-40s, a military version of the Boeing 737 that the Navy uses as a cargo plane. 116. Alexis was discharged from the Navy in 2011 after the Navy charged Alexis with a "pattern of misconduct" of at least eight episodes including insubordination, disorderly conduct, unauthorized absences from work and drunkenness. His rank was petty officer third class. 117. After leaving the naval reserves, Alexis worked part-time as a waiter and delivery driver at the Happy Bowl Thai Restaurant In White Settlement, a suburb of Fort Worth, Texas. 118. Aaron Alexis' enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve on May 5, 2007 at the United States Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) in Brooklyn, NY. Prior to that time the Department of the Navy knew or reasonably should have known that shooter Aaron Alexis could foreseeably engage in acts of malicious shooting violence leading to injury or death. For instance, three years prior to his enlistment, Alexis was arrested in Seattle, WA and charged with malicious mischief shooting the tires of a construction workers vehicle on June 3, 2004. Page 51 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

119. The Department of the Navy knew Alexis posed a dangerous risk of harm before shooter Aaron Alexis' was discharged on January 31, 2011 by the Bureau of Naval Personnel. For instance, Alexis was arrested on September 5, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas for going into a rage and firing a shotgun through the ceiling of his apartment because the resident upstairs was disturbing him. After his arrest Alexis' Commanding Officer initiated proceedings to administratively separate him from the U.S. Navy. However when Alexis was not charged for unlawfully discharging the firearm, the proceedings were halted and Alexis received no discipline or mental evaluation. Instead, the Department of the Navy issued him the most favorable reentry code (an honorable discharge) and on February 22, 2011 issued Alexis a U.S. Naval Reserve Identification and Privilege Card. 119. Shooter Alexis was arrested in 2010 by the Tarrant County Texas Sheriff's Office for firing a gun through the ceiling of his apartment in an angry episode directed at his neighbor living in the apartment above him. (Complaint Exhibit 50) Alexis was suffering delusions that his neighbor was intentionally keeping him awake by talking to him through the floor and sending vibrations into his body. 120. In July 2012 Shooter Alexis was enrolled as a worldwide online student at the Fort Worth campus of the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Page 52 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautics. 121. From September 2012 to January 2013 Alexis worked in Japan for THE EXPERTS, LLC., a Fort Lauderdale company. Alexis work included "refreshing computer systems" for the Navy Marine Corps Intranet network. THE EXPERTS, LLC., performed this work under a subcontract with HP Enterprise Services (HPES) which contracted directly with the Navy. 122. Alexis returned to the United States in July 2013 and continued working for THE EXPERTS, LLC. At the Washington Navy Yard among other assignments in the summer of 2013. SHOOTER ALEXIS' DELUSIONAL BEHAVIOR REPORTED TO THE NAVY 123. Alexis traveled frequently during various assignments during the summer of 2013. 124. In early August 2013, Alexis flew from Virginia to Newport Rhode Island to work at the Newport Naval Station. 125. Alexis initially checked into The Residence Inn hotel in Middletown, Rhode Island. He abruptly checked out of the hotel while suffering delusions that he was being followed by three black people who he believed to be keeping him awake by talking to him through a wall in the hotel and sending vibrations into his body. (Complaint exhibit 51) 126. Alexis moved to a second hotel on the Newport Navy base where he Page 53 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

continued having delusions believing he was hearing the same voices talking to him through the walls, floor and ceiling. 127. Alexis packed up a third time and moved to room 405 of the Marriott hotel in Newport Rhode Island. At 6:23 AM on August 7, 2013, Alexis called the Newport Police Department and complained he was being harassed by the same three people he believed were following him since he arrived at the airport in Newport. 128. Newport police officers Seth Mosely and Eric Cormier responded to the call to Alexis Marriott hotel room. (Complaint exhibit 51) 129. Alexis told the Newport police officers that he was working as a "naval base contractor" at the Newport Naval Station. He explained that he was involved in an altercation at the airport with an unknown individual who he believed "sent three people to follow him and keep him awake by talking to him and sending vibrations into his body." Despite changing hotels, Alexis believed he was being harassed by these three individuals who he believed "were speaking to him through the floorâ&#x20AC;Ś Through the ceilingâ&#x20AC;Ś And the individuals are using some sort of microwave machine to send vibrations through the ceiling penetrating his body so he cannot fall asleep." Alexis believed these individuals were going to harm him. (Complaint exhibit 51). 130. The Newport police report filed by Officers Mosely and Cormier was Page 54 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

reviewed by Supervising Officer Sgt. Frank Rosa. Sgt. Rosa was concerned about the allegations that a naval base contractor was having audible hallucinations and reporting he believed he was "hearing voices". (Complaint Exhibit 51). 131. "Based on the naval base implications", Sgt. Rosa immediately telephoned the Duty Newport Naval Station Police Officer and advised of the police report and delusional claims made by shooter Alexis. 132. Because of the naval base implications, Sgt. Rosa considered this mental instability episode as a "security incident/adverse informationâ&#x20AC;?. 133. Also because of the naval base implications, Sgt. Rosa immediately faxed a copy of the police report to the Duty Officer at the Newport Naval Station Police Headquarters. 134. During Sgt. Rosa's telephone conversation, the Newport Naval Station Police Duty Officer advised Sgt. Rosa that he would follow up on this subject including to determine if Alexis was in fact a naval base contractor. (Complaint exhibit 51) 135. After receiving the Newport police report, the Navy negligently breached its duties when it: a.

Failed to identify the episode described in the police report as a

â&#x20AC;&#x153;security incident/adverse informationâ&#x20AC;? according to established applicable Navy instructions Page 55 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Failed to assess the “security incident/adverse information” as a

potential threat to Naval security according to established applicable Navy instructions c.

Failed to recognize that the episode was a “security

incident/adverse information” was subject to the naval Personnel Security Program (PSP) and established applicable Navy instructions d.

Failed to report the episode as a “security incident/adverse

information” to the commanding officer of the Newport Naval Station as required by established applicable Navy instructions. e.

Failed to report the episode as a “security incident/adverse

information” to the DoN CAF via JPAS or applicable Navy command in charge of assessing and mitigating "security incidents" as required by established applicable Navy instructions. f.

Failed to mitigate the risks presented in the episode and

“security incident/adverse information” as required by established applicable Navy instructions including the Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) g.

Failed to investigate the episode as a “security incident/adverse

information” as required by established applicable Navy instructions. h.

Failed to notify shooter Alexis employer THE EXPERTS,

LLC., about the episode as required by established applicable Navy instructions. Page 56 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Failed to conduct a follow-up investigation with THE

EXPERTS, LLC., about the episode as required by established applicable Navy instructions j.

Failed to provide the follow-up investigation with THE

EXPERTS, LLC., to the Newport Naval Station commanding officer and the DoN CAF via JPAS and established applicable Navy instructions. 136. After reviewing the Newport police report and receiving the follow-up phone call from Newport police Sgt. Rosa about that report, The Newport Navy station officers determined: a.

The episode was not a "security incident/adverse information"

That shooter Alexis was in fact a naval base contractor

That the episode should not be reported to the Newport Naval

Station commander. d.

That the episode should not be reported to the DoN CAF via

JPAS or pursuant to established applicable Navy instructions. e. The episode was not a risk to Naval security under the Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) or established applicable Navy instructions. f.

That nothing further should be done by the Navy concerning

the episode. 137. Despite having actual knowledge of the Newport police report Page 57 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

concerning the episode involving mentally unstable shooter Alexis on August 7, 2013, the Navy was derelict in its duty and negligently failed to discharge its duty to: a.

Properly and promptly assess the risk to Navy security

according to established applicable Navy instructions. b.

Properly and promptly report the risk to Navy security

according to established applicable Navy instructions. c.

Properly and promptly mitigate the risk to Navy security

according to established applicable Navy instructions. 138. But for the dereliction of duty and negligence by the Navy in discharging its duties according to established applicable Navy instructions: a.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have been properly and promptly assessed according to established applicable Navy instructions. b.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have been properly and promptly reported according to established applicable Navy instructions. c.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have been properly and promptly mitigated according to established applicable Navy instructions. Page 58 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have been eliminated by established applicable Navy instructions. e.

The security clearance (CAC) of known active inside shooter

Aaron Alexis would have likely been revoked. f.

Known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would not likely

have been permitted access and entry to the Washington Navy Yard at all on September 16, 2013. g.

Known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely

been properly screened and searched for prohibited items (i.e. shotgun and ammunition) on Federal facilities (Title 18 United States Code ยง930) prior to being permitted access and entry, if at all, to the Washington Navy Yard on September 16, 2013. h.

Known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely

Plaintiff Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight would not have

likely been shot and killed on September 16, 2013, by known active inside shooter Page 59 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Aaron Alexis at the Washington Navy Yard. SHOOTER ALEXIS' DELUSIONAL BEHAVIOR REPORTED TO EMPLOYER THE EXPERTS, LLC., AND HPSE 139. Also on August 7, 2013, when Shooter Alexis called the Newport police complaining about his delusions of being pursued and threatened by fictional people, Alexis made similar mentally deranged alarming complaints to the hotel desk clerk at the Marriott Hotel. 140. The Marriott Hotel desk clerk spoke with the police officers investigating Alexis' complaint and thereafter contacted an HPSE site manager who was closely supervising Alexis when he was in Rhode Island. 141. The Marriott Hotel desk clerk explained Alexis' alarming behavior to the HPSE site manager and/or THE EXPERTS, LLC.. 142. The HPSE site manager and/or THE EXPERTS, LLC. told the Marriott hotel desk clerk they would take care of the problem with Alexis and give him a few days off to recover from his stress. 143. On August 7, 2013, The HPSE site manager relayed the alarming report about Alexis delusional behavior to THE EXPERTS, LLC., to follow-up and respond to the episode according to security protocol, contractual agreements, and applicable Navyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s duty to supervise its employees instructions including the duty to report "security incidents/adverse information" under the Navy Personnel Page 60 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Security Program (PSP) 144. After being notified of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;security incident/adverse informationâ&#x20AC;? involving employee Alexis, THE EXPERTS, LLC., immediately revoked employee Alexis' security clearance and/or (CAC) on August 7, 2013. DUTY OF CONTRACTORS/SUBCONTRACTORS TO REPORT ADVERSE INFORMATION/SECURITY INCIDENTS ABOUT EMPLOYEES 145. Contractors and subcontractors who enter into contracts with United States agencies are subject to and must follow the requirements of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP). 146. The National Industrial Security Program (NISP) was created on January 6, 1993 by presidential executive order 12829. (Complaint Exhibit 55) 147. The provisions and requirements of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) were established in the Department of Defense National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISP0M) DOD 5220.22-M. (February 2006) (Complaint Exhibit 52) 148. The Director, Information Security Oversight Office (IS00) is responsible for implementing and monitoring the NISP and for issuing implementing directives that are binding on all agencies. (Complaint Exhibit 52 at page 1-1-1) 149. The director of Defense Security Service (DSS) is vested with security Page 61 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

oversight for cleared companies requiring access to classified information for legitimate US government requirements. (Complaint Exhibit 54) 150. The March 28, 2013, revision of the NISP Operating Manual requires the following reports to be submitted to the Cognizant Security Agency (CSA) which denotes the Department of Defense (DOD) and other agencies: "1-302 Reports to be submitted to the CSA a. Adverse information. Contractors shall report adverse information coming to their attention concerning any of their cleared employees. Reports based on rumor or innuendo should not be made. The subsequent termination of employment of an employee does not obviate the requirement to submit this report. If the individual is employed on a federal installation, the contractor shall furnish a copy of the report and its final disposition to the commander or head of the installation." (Complaint Exhibit 52, NISPOM at page 1-3-1) (3/28/13); (Complaint Exhibit 53: Industrial Security Program Office (ISPO-ISL 2011-04 Industrial Security Letter dated September 23, 2011); (Complaint Exhibits 56 and 57 151. Adverse information includes any "security incident". 152. Contractors including HPES have a duty to ensure that DoD contract security classification specifications (including NISPOM) are incorporated into each subcontract. DoD instruction 5220.22-M at chapter 7-102. Page 62 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

153. Adverse information and changes in cleared employee status may be reported electronically via JPAS. (NISPOM at chapter 1-302) (Complaint Exhibit 58) 154. The contractor and subcontractor who contract with United States agencies are required to sign DoD security agreement (DD form 441) which requires compliance with the provisions of The National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) 155. Both HPES and THE EXPERTS had a duty to immediately report the security incident/adverse information involving Aaron Alexis and the Newport Police Department episode/investigation of August 7, 2013 to: a.

The commander of the Newport Naval Station

The Department of Defense CSA

Clearance eligibility in JPAS (Joint Personnel Adjudication

System ) (Complaint Exhibit 53) d.

Department of Defense Defense Security Service (DSS)

Department of Defense Defense Security Service Industrial

Security Program Office 156. Both HPES and THE EXPERTS failed to report and breached their duty to report the security incident/adverse information involving Aaron Alexis and the Newport Police Department episode/investigation of August 7, 2013 as Page 63 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

required by NISPOM. THE SHOOTING RAMPAGE AT THE WASHINGTON NAVY YARD 157. Shooter Alexis was ordered by his employer THE EXPERTS, LLC. to return to Washington, D.C. following the “security incident/adverse information” in Newport Rhode Island. 158. Alexis arrived in Washington, D.C. on August 25. He stayed at two different hotels in Bethesda and Pentagon City from August 31 through September 7 before moving to a Residence Inn on September 7, 2013. That is where he lived until the shooting on September 16, 2013. 159. Alexis began work at the Washington Navy Yard at Building 197 with his restored security clearance (CAC) on September 9, 2013. 160. On Saturday, September 14, 2013, Alexis traveled to a gun store in Lorton, Virginia where he purchased a Remington 870 shotgun and ammunition. He also stopped at a home improvement store in Northern Virginia where he bought a hack saw used to saw off the stock and barrel of the shotgun. 161. Alexis carved four phrases into the shotgun including "better off this way", "my ELF [extremely low frequency] weapon",” not what y'all say" and "end to the torment". Alexis wrote a note in his computer stating "ultralow frequency attack is what I've been subject to for the last three months, and to be perfectly honest that is what has driven me to this." Page 64 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

162. At 7:53 AM on September 16, 2013 Alexis drove his rental car, a blue Toyota Prius with New York license plates to the gates of the Washington Navy Yard. He showed the guard his security clearance CAC card and was permitted to drive into the facility without any screening or other search for weapons. 163. At the time he drove into the Washington Navy Yard Alexis unlawfully had in his possession prohibited by Title 18 U.S.C. ยง930 a backpack containing the shotgun and ammunition. 164. Alexis entered Parking Garage 28 located directly across from Building 197. 165. At 8:08 AM Alexis exited Parking Garage 28 on foot carrying the backpack containing the shotgun and ammunition. 166. There was no magnetometer, video cameras, or other security screening devices situated at the entrance to Building 197. There were no security guards or other persons who screen and search for prohibited items as a condition of Alexis entering Building 197. No attempt was made whatsoever to screen or search for prohibited items including firearms and ammunition as a condition of accessing Building 197. 167. There were no methods of mitigation at the entrance to Building 197 which would mitigate the risk/threat of inside active shooter carrying prohibited items including firearms and ammunition to access Building 197 without Page 65 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

screening, detection, and efforts to prohibit access. 168. Alexis entered Building 197 without being observed and/ or screened and/or searched for prohibited items as a condition of entering the building. 169. Alexis took the elevator to the fourth floor and entered the men's bathroom carrying the backpack containing firearms and ammunition. 170. At 8:15 AM Alexis crossed a hallway into Four West area of Building 197 armed with a shotgun and ammunition. He began shooting victims at random. 171. At 8:17 AM the first 911 call was made from the fourth floor after several victims were shot. 172. At 8:20 AM Alexis left the fourth floor by way of the stairs and entered the third floor shooting victims at random. 173. Alexis traveled from the first to the third floors shooting victims. At one point he picked up a Beretta handgun dropped by law enforcement officer he shot. 174. At 9:25 AM Alexis was shot dead by law enforcement responders. 175. Alexis shot dead a total of 12 people and wounded four others. 176.

Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight was one of the victims shot

dead by Alexis.

Page 66 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

CLAIMS FOR RELIEF COUNT I: CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST UNITED STATES OF AMERICA d/b/a DEPARTMENT OF NAVY FOR WRONGFUL DEATH OF MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT ARISING FROM NEGLIGENCE (DUTY TO KEEP SAFE, DUTY TO WARN, DUTY TO HIRE, SUPERVISE AND TRAIN) 177. Plaintiff realleges 1 through 176 above as if fully set forth herein verbatim and further allege: 178. This is a cause of action for damages against the USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) arising from negligence proximately causing the wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight pursuant to DC Code ยง162701 (2013) 179. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight on September 16, 2013 occurred within the limits of the District of Columbia. 180. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight was proximately caused by the negligence of the USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy). 181. Plaintiff, as lawfully appointed personal representative, is authorized to bring this action in the name of the personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to DC code ยง16-2702 (2013). 182. Plaintiff, as personal representative, brings this cause of action for damages caused to the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and for damages to the next of kin pursuant to DC Code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) Page 67 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

183. The Defendant USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) owed a nondelegable duty to the Plaintiff to maintain the premises of the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 where Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight worked in a safe condition free from foreseeable, unreasonable risks of death from known active inside shooters. This duty included: a.

Following all established applicable rules, policies and

procedures for the safety and protection of persons and facilities on the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 b.

Promptly and properly assessing foreseeable risks of death and

injury to military and civilian employees on the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 from known active inside shooters. c.

Promptly and properly mitigating foreseeable risks of death and

injury to military and civilian employees on the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 from known active inside shooters. d.

Following all established applicable rules, policies and

procedures to prevent access to the premises of the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 by persons possessing "prohibited items" under Title 18 United States Code ยง930 including firearms and ammunition. e.

Promptly and properly identifying, screening and searching

persons accessing the premises of the Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 for Page 68 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

possession of "prohibited items" under Title 18 United States code ยง930 including firearms and ammunition. f.

Identifying and preventing access to the premises of the

Washington Navy Yard and Building 197 by persons in possession of "prohibited items" under title 18 United States code ยง930 including firearms and ammunition. g.

Recognizing that the Washington Navy Yard is located in a

"high risk" area of DC. h.

Recognizing that the Washington Navy Yard is located in an

area which experiences a high rate of "outdoor gunshot incidents" each year for the past eight years. 184. The USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) owed a duty to warn the Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and other military and civilian employees in Building 197 at the Washington Naval Yard of the risk of injury and/or death from a known active inside shooter arising from the negligence of the USA in failing to mitigate for the risk of injury and/or death. 185. The USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) breached its duty to warn the Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight of the risk of injury and/or death from a known active inside shooter arising from the negligence of the USA in failing to mitigate for the risk by screening and searching for prohibited items including Page 69 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

firearms and ammunition possessed by those accessing and entering Building 197 at the Washington Naval Yard. 186. The USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) owed a duty to properly hire, supervise and train security staff to protect the Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and military and civilian employees in Building 197 at the Washington Naval Yard by mitigating the risk of injury and/or death from a known active inside shooter. 187. The USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy) breached its duty to properly hire, supervise and train security staff to protect the Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight by failing to mitigate for the risk of injury and/or death from a known active inside shooter by screening and searching for prohibited items including firearms and ammunition possessed by those accessing and entering Building 197 at the Washington Naval Yard. 188. The decedent Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight suffered and experienced severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress prior to her wrongful death. 189. The estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight lost probable future earnings, ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages in all other damages provided by DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) Page 70 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

190. As a Direct and foreseeable result of the negligence of the USA, proximately causing her wrongful death, the next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight have suffered damages including severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress, loss of probable future earnings, loss of ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages, reasonable expenses of burial, and other damages provided by law including DC code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) and DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays that the Court will: A.

Take jurisdiction of the parties and subject matter of this action.

Conduct a Trial followed by the entry of a Final Judgment for all

lawful damages in favor of the estate and next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight C.

Award attorneys fees and costs to the Plaintiff.

Enter such other and further relief as the Court deems just in the

premises. Plaintiff demands trial by jury of all issues triable of right by a jury.

Page 71 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

COUNT II: CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST UNITED STATES OF AMERICA d/b/a DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR WRONGFUL DEATH OF MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT ARISING FROM NEGLIGENCE (DUTY TO KEEP SAFE, FAILURE TO WARN OF KNOWN DANGERS) 191. Plaintiff realleges 1 through 176 above as if fully set forth herein verbatim and further allege: 192. This is a cause of action for damages against the USA (d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs arising from negligence proximately causing the wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight pursuant to DC Code ยง162701 (2013) 193. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight on September 16, 2013 occurred within the limits of the District of Columbia. 194. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight was proximately caused by the negligence of the USA (d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs). 195. Plaintiff, as lawfully appointed personal representative, is authorized to bring this action in the name of the personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to DC code ยง16-2702 (2013). 196. Plaintiff, as personal representative, brings this cause of action for damages caused to the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and for damages to the next of kin pursuant to DC Code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) Page 72 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

197. The decedent Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight suffered and experienced severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress prior to her wrongful death. 198. The estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight lost probable future earnings, ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages in all other damages provided by DC code §16-2701 et seq. (2013) 199. As a Direct and foreseeable result of the negligence of the USA, proximately causing her wrongful death, the next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight have suffered damages including severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress, loss of probable future earnings, loss of ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages, reasonable expenses of burial, and other damages provided by law including DC code §12-101 et seq. (2013) and DC code §16-2701 et seq. (2013) 200. In August 2013, Police officers in Newport, Rhode Island warned the U.S. Navy that Aaron Alexis was hallucinating and hearing voices, and security officials at the local Navy base where he worked promised to look into the matter. 201. Newport Police Officers had faxed a copy of their report to the Newport Naval Station after Alexis told them on August 7, 2013, that he was being threatened by unseen people and feared that “some sort of microwave machine” was penetrating his body. Page 73 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

202. Newport Police transmitted by facsimile the report to the Navy an hour after the police spoke with Alexis. The Navy told the Newport Police that they would follow up on it. Navy security agents received and reviewed the police report but decided Alexis was not a threat to the institution or himself. The Navy did not try to personally interview Alexis or revoke his security clearance. Nor did the Navy contact Alexis’ employer THE EXPERTS, LLC. for a status report. The Navy breached its duty to ministerally follow its own policies and procedures requiring follow up of those warning signs. 203. While in Newport, Alexis contacted human resources for his employer, THE EXPERTS, LLC., multiple times to complain about hearing voices in his hotel room. Company employees though he was referring to actual voices, and moved him to new hotels twice. 204. The Department of Veteran Affairs’ treated Alexis on August 23, 2013, in the emergency room at the VA Medical Center in Providence, R.I. “complaining of insomnia.” He was given a “small amount” of medicine to help him sleep and instructed to see his primary care provider. Five days later he received a small refill from the emergency room at the VA Medical Center in Washington.

Page 74 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

205. The U.S.A. d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs had a non-delegable duty to keep the Washington Navy Yard safe and to warn Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight of unreasonable risk of harm by: a.

Recognizing that patient shooter Alexis posed an unreasonable

risk of harm to others at his workplace (the Washington Navy Yard) when patient shooter Alexis reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, that he was experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation. b.

Recognizing that patient shooter Alexis had the propensity to

commit workplace violence when he reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, that he was experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation. c.

Recognizing that patient shooter Alexis should be hospitalized

and treated for the psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation he reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013. d.

Recognizing that patient shooter Alexis posed an unreasonable

risk of harm to others if he was released from the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, without being hospitalized and treated. e.

Recognizing that patient shooter Alexis had a secret security

clearance to his workplace (the Washington Navy Yard) and that he posed an Page 75 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

unreasonable risk of harm to others at his workplace if he was released from the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, without being hospitalized and treated. f.

Recognizing that the personnel at the VA Medical Center

should have immediately followed established VA policies and practices requiring them to contact, warn and report to security personnel at the Washington Navy Yard and those charged with supervising security clearances that patient shooter Alexis reported experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation on August 23, 2013, and posed an unreasonable risk of harm to others at his workplace. 206. The Department of Veterans Affairs breached its non-delegable duty to keep the Washington Navy Yard safe and to warn Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight of unreasonable risk of harm by: a.

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis had the

propensity to commit workplace violence when he reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, that he was experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation. b.

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis posed an

imminent unreasonable risk of harm to others at his workplace (the Washington Navy Yard) when patient shooter Alexis reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, that he was experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation. Page 76 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis posed an

imminent unreasonable risk of harm to others if he was released from the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, without being hospitalized and treated. d.

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis should be

hospitalized and treated for psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation he reported to medical personnel at the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013. e.

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis Posed an

imminent unreasonable risk of harm to others if he was released from the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, without being hospitalized and treated f.

Failing to recognize that patient shooter Alexis had a secret

security clearance to his workplace (the Washington Navy Yard) and that he posed an imminent unreasonable risk of harm to others at his workplace if he was released by the VA Medical Center on August 23, 2013, without being hospitalized and treated. g.

Failing to recognize that the personnel at the VA Medical

Center should have immediately followed established VA policies and practices requiring them to contact, warn and report to security personnel at the Washington Navy Yard and those charged with supervision of security clearances that patient shooter Alexis reported experiencing psychotic episodes and sleep deprivation on Page 77 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

August 23, 2013, and posed an imminent unreasonable risk of harm to others at his workplace. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays that the Court will: A.

Take jurisdiction of the parties and subject matter of this action.

Conduct a trial followed by entry of a Final Judgment for all Damages

provided by law in favor of the Estate and next of kin. C.

Award attorneys fees and costs to the Plaintiff for bringing this action.

Enter such other and further relief as the court deems just in the

premises. Plaintiff demands trial by Jury of all issues triable of right by a Jury.

COUNT III: CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST THE HEWLETT-PACKARD ENTERPRISES SERVICES, LLC, (HPES) FOR WRONGFUL DEATH OF MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT ARISING FROM NEGLIGENCE (NEGLIGENT SUPERVISION AND TRAINING/NEGLIGENT FAILURE TO WARN) 207. Plaintiff realleges 1 through 176 above as if fully set forth herein verbatim and further allege: 208. This is a cause of action for damages against Hewlett-Packard Enterprises Services, LLC (HPES) for wrongful death of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight arising from Negligence (Negligent hiring, supervision and training and negligent failure to warn). Page 78 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

209. Shooter Alexis work in Newport Rhode Island was closely supervised by an HPSE site manager in August 2013 who had a duty of care to properly supervise and train Alexis. 210. On August 7, 2013, when the Newport police responded to the urgent call by shooter Alexis, the Newport Marriott hotel clerk telephoned the HPSE site manager and explained the details of the "security incident/adverse information". 211. The HPSE site manager also communicated with HPSE corporate offices as well as Alexis' employer THE EXPERTS, LLC. on August 7, 2013, and transmitted the details of the "security incident". 212. Both HPSE and THE EXPERTS, LLC. knew on August 7, 2013, that the Alexis episode was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;security incident/adverse informationâ&#x20AC;? required to be reported to the Navy pursuant to the employers duty to supervise and control its employees United States security protocol, contractual agreements, and applicable Department of Homeland Security and/or Department of Defense and/or Navy instructions including those under the Navy personnel security program (PSP). 213. Further, HPSE knew on August 7, 2013, that Alexis employer THE EXPERTS, LLC. had revoked Alexis security clearance and/or CAC because of the Newport "security incident/adverse information". 214. HPSE negligently breached its duties by: Page 79 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Failing to determine that the Alexis episode was a "security

incident/adverse information". b.

Failing to determine that the Alexis “security incident/adverse

information” was required to be reported to the Navy and commander of the Newport Naval Station. c.

Failing to report the Alexis “security incident/adverse

information” to the Navy. d.

Failing to report/warn the Alexis “security incident/adverse

information” to the Commander of every facility where Alexis worked including the Newport Naval Station and the Washington Navy Yard. e.

Failing to report the Alexis “security incident/adverse

information” to the DON CAF via JPAS or pursuant to established applicable Navy instructions and/or the NISP contract with the Navy. f.

Failing to properly, independently, and thoroughly investigate

the Alexis "security incident/adverse information". g.

Failing to report the results of such an investigation to the

Failing to follow-up and discover that THE EXPERTS, LLC.

Navy/NISP.

restored Alexis' security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013, two days after the "security incident" Page 80 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Failing to report to the Navy that THE EXPERTS, LLC. and

restored Alexis' security clearance of August 9, 2013, only two days after the "security incident/adverse information". j.

Failing to immediately terminate the Experts subcontract with

Failure to report “security incident/adverse information” under

Failure to warn the commander of the Washington Naval Yard

HPSE.

NISP.

of the “security incident/adverse information”. 215. But for the negligence of HPSE: a.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely been properly and promptly assessed according to established applicable Navy instructions. b.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely been properly and promptly reported according to established applicable Navy instructions. c.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely been Page 81 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

properly and promptly mitigated according to established applicable Navy instructions. d.

The known risk of harm to Navy personnel and civilian

employees by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely been eliminated by established applicable Navy instructions. e.

The security clearance and/or CAC of known active inside

shooter Aaron Alexis would have likely been permanently revoked. f.

Known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis would not likely

have been permitted access and entry to the Washington Navy Yard at all on September 16, 2013. g.

Plaintiff Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight would not likely

have been shot and killed on September 16, 2013 by known active inside shooter Aaron Alexis at the Washington Navy Yard. COVER UP BY HPSE OF THE RESTORED STATUS OF ALEXIS’ SECURITY CLEARANCE 216. After THE EXPERTS, LLC., revoked Alexis’ security clearance and/or CAC on August 7, 2013, HPSE had a duty to report/warn that action to the Navy as part of its duty to report any “security incident/adverse information” 217. HPSE knew or reasonably should have known that THE EXPERTS, LLC., restored Alexis’ security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013, without Page 82 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

any reasonable investigation, factual justification, knowledge or authority by the Navy. 218. After THE EXPERTS, LLC., restored Alexis’ security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013, HPSE had a duty to report/warn that action to the Navy as part of its duty to report any “security incident”. (Also duty under NISP) 219. HPSE negligently breached its duty to report/warn any “security incident/adverse information” to the Navy by failing to report to the Navy that THE EXPERTS, LLC., restored Alexis’ security clearance on August 9, 2013. 220. Instead, HPSE covered up its knowledge that THE EXPERTS, LLC., restored shooter Alexis’ security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013. 221. The action of HPSE on concealing the restoration of shooter Alexis’ security clearance from the Navy is evidence of HPSE’s consciousness of guilt of wrongdoing/negligence. 222. Following the shooting episode on September 16, 2013, HPSE terminated THE EXPERTS, LLC., subcontract because “THE EXPERTS, LLC., failed to properly supervise and control its employee Alexis” 223. HPSE knew THE EXPERTS, LLC., failed to supervise and control Alexis prior to the shooting episode. 224. HPSE negligently failed to terminate THE EXPERTS, LLC., subcontract immediately prior to the shooting episode based on its knowledge. Page 83 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

225. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight on September 16, 2013 occurred within the limits of the District of Columbia. 226. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight was proximately caused by the negligence of the USA (d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs). 227. Plaintiff, as lawfully appointed personal representative, is authorized to bring this action in the name of the personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to DC code ยง16-2702 (2013). 228. Plaintiff, as personal representative, brings this cause of action for damages caused to the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and for damages to the next of kin pursuant to DC Code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) 229. The decedent Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight suffered and experienced severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress prior to her wrongful death. 230. The estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight lost probable future earnings, ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages in all other damages provided by DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) 231. As a Direct and foreseeable result of the negligence of the USA, proximately causing her wrongful death, the next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight have suffered damages including severe pain, mental anguish Page 84 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

and emotional distress, loss of probable future earnings, loss of ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages, reasonable expenses of burial, and other damages provided by law including DC code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) and DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays that the Court will: A.

Take jurisdiction of the parties and subject matter of this action.

Conduct a trial followed by entry of a Final Judgment for all Damages

provided by law in favor of the Estate and next of kin. C.

Award attorneys fees and costs to the Plaintiff for bringing this action.

Enter such other and further relief as the court deems just in the

premises. Plaintiff demands trial by Jury of all issues triable of right by a Jury. COUNT IV: CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST THE EXPERTS, LLC., LLC, FOR WRONGFUL DEATH OF MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT ARISING FROM NEGLIGENCE (FAILURE TO HIRE, SUPERVISE AND TRAIN, FAILURE TO WARN) 232. Plaintiff realleges 1 through 176 above as if fully set forth herein verbatim and further allege: 233. This is a cause of action for damages against THE EXPERTS, LLC for wrongful death of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight arising from negligence (Negligent hiring, supervision and training and negligent failure to warn). Page 85 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

234. After revoking employee Alexis security clearance and/or (CAC), THE EXPERTS, LLC. concealed this fact from the Navy. 235. THE EXPERTS, LLC. action in concealing the revocation of employee Alexis security clearance and/or (CAC) from the Navy is evidence of THE EXPERTS, LLC. consciousness of guilt of wrongdoing/negligence. 236. THE EXPERTS, LLC. negligently failed to discharge its employers duty of supervision and control to: a.

Immediately assess and warn the Navy that employee Alexis

episode was a "security incident/adverse information". b.

Immediately assess and warn the Navy that employee Alexis

was a security risk to the Navy personnel and civilian employees c.

Immediately report/warn the Navy that employee Alexis

episode as a "security incident/adverse information" d.

Immediately deliver the information contained in the Newport

police report to the appropriate Navy offices and officers pursuant to an employers duty to warn, security protocol, contractual agreements, and applicable Navy instructions including the duty to report/warn "security incidents/adverse information" under the Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) e.

immediately report employee Alexis episode to the DON CAF

via JPAS Page 86 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Immediately investigate the episode involving employee Alexis

Immediately require employee Alexis to be promptly and

properly evaluated for mental instability h.

Immediately inform the Navy that the security clearance of

employee Alexis had been revoked by THE EXPERTS, LLC. i.

Prohibit restoration of employee Alexis security clearance

pending reporting and investigation of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;security incident/adverse informationâ&#x20AC;? by the Navy according to established applicable Navy instructions. j.

Immediately Notify each and every Navy commander of every

facility where employee Alexis was working or would be assigned to work about the Alexis episode, the Alexis "security incident/adverse information", and the revocation of Alexis security clearance including the Commander of the Washington Navy Yard k.

Refrain from "covering up" employee Alexis "security

incident/adverse information" l.

Terminate the employment of Alexis immediately.

237. After the August 7, 2013 Alexis "security incident/adverse information", employer THE EXPERTS, LLC. pulled shooter Alexis off of his Newport Naval Station assignment for several days "rest." Page 87 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

238. However, THE EXPERTS, LLC. restored employee Alexis security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013. 239. Prior to restoring employee Alexis security clearance and/or CAC on August 9, 2013, THE EXPERTS, LLC. negligently did not require Alexis to undergo a psychiatric evaluation or otherwise obtain professional medical assessment of his mental health status. 240. Nor did THE EXPERTS, LLC. inform the Navy that employee Alexis security clearance and/or CAC had been restored. 241. Nor did THE EXPERTS, LLC. conduct a required and appropriate investigation into the circumstances of employee Alexis “security incident/adverse information” as required by employers duty of supervision and control, security protocol, contractual agreements, and applicable Navy instructions including The Navy Personnel Security Program (PSP) 242. Instead, THE EXPERTS, LLC. simply spoke with a few nonmedical people with whom employee Alexis had been in contact prior to the Newport “security incident/adverse information” to see if Alexis had exhibited any other suspicious behavior indicating mental instability. 243. THE EXPERTS, LLC. did not inform/warn the Navy of the content of any information THE EXPERTS, LLC. obtained by speaking with people with whom Alexis had been in contact prior to the Newport police episode. Page 88 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

244. This information was also concealed by THE EXPERTS, LLC. from the Navy. 245. After employee Alexis completed his several days "rest", THE EXPERTS, LLC. sent shooter Alexis back to work with his security clearance in Cherry Point, North Carolina and subsequently Washington DC. 246. THE EXPERTS, LLC. negligently failed to discharge its duty to disclose the Alexis Newport “security incident/adverse information” to the Navy commanders In Cherry Point North Carolina and the Washington Navy Yard before sending Alexis to those Navy facilities. 247. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight on September 16, 2013 occurred within the limits of the District of Columbia. 248. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight was proximately caused by the negligence of the USA (d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs). 249. Plaintiff, as lawfully appointed personal representative, is authorized to bring this action in the name of the personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to DC code §16-2702 (2013). 250. Plaintiff, as personal representative, brings this cause of action for damages caused to the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and for damages to the next of kin pursuant to DC Code §12-101 et seq. (2013) Page 89 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

251. The decedent Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight suffered and experienced severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress prior to her wrongful death. 252. The estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight lost probable future earnings, ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages in all other damages provided by DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) 253. As a Direct and foreseeable result of the negligence of the USA, proximately causing her wrongful death, the next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight have suffered damages including severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress, loss of probable future earnings, loss of ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages, reasonable expenses of burial, and other damages provided by law including DC code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) and DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays that the Court will: A.

Take jurisdiction of the parties and subject matter of this action.

Conduct a trial followed by entry of a Final Judgment for all Damages

provided by law in favor of the Estate and next of kin. C.

Award attorneys fees and costs to the Plaintiff for bringing this action.

Enter such other and further relief as the court deems just in the

premises. Page 90 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Plaintiff demands trial by Jury of all issues triable of right by a Jury.

COUNT V: CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST THE USA (D/B/A DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY AND DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS) FOR WRONGFUL DEATH OF MARY FRANCES DELORENZO KNIGHT ARISING FROM DEPRIVATION OF CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS (BIVENS CLAIM) 254. Plaintiff realleges paragraphs 1 through 176 as if fully set forth herein verbatim and further alleges: 255. This is a cause of action against the USA (d/b/a Department of the Navy and Department of Veterans Affairs) for wrongful death of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight arising from the deprivation of constitutional rights guaranteed by Article V of the United States Constitution guaranteeing the right to life and liberty. Bivens v. Six Unknown Agents Of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, 403 U.S. 388 (1971) 256. The due process clause of the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees every citizen's right to life and liberty from violation by federal government action. 257. Through its deliberate indifference alleged above, the USA deprived Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight of her federal constitutional rights to life and liberty. Page 91 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

258. The deliberate indifference of the Defendant USA in violating the clearly established statute (Title 18 United States Code ยง930) prohibiting the possession of firearms on federal facilities placed the plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight into a foreseeable risk of injury and death. 259. The arbitrary and abusive exercise of official power by the USA in violating the federal firearms statute in the case at bar can be fairly said to "shock the conscience." 260. The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects the rights of liberty and life of any citizen including the Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight against deprivation by the USA. 261. The deliberate indifference of the USA placed Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight into a foreseeable zone of risk which proximately caused the loss of her liberty and life guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution in the following particulars: a.

But for the deliberate indifference of the USA, known active

shooter Alexis would not have been permitted access to Building 197 at the Washington Naval Yard while possessing prohibited items including a shotgun and ammunition. b.

But for the deliberate indifference of the USA, Plaintiff Mary

Frances Delorenzo Knight would have been protected from the foreseeable zone of Page 92 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

risk which proximately caused the loss of her liberty and life guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution.

But for the deliberate indifference of the USA, Plaintiff Mary

Frances Delorenzo Knight would have been warned in advance about the foreseeable zone of risk presented by known active shooter Alexis and could have herself mitigated that risk. d.

But for the deliberate indifference of the USA, the foreseeable

zone of risk which proximately caused the loss of liberty and life to Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight would likely have been mitigated and Plaintiff would not likely have lost her liberty and life on September 16, 2013. 262. Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knights constitutional right to be free from government created danger was clearly established on or before September 16, 2013. 263. On or before September 16, 2013 it was clearly established that the USA could be held liable for constitutional violations where the government affirmatively and with deliberate indifference placed an individual such as the Plaintiff in danger she would not have otherwise been subjected to. Bivens v. Six Unknown Named Agents of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, 403 U.S. 388 (1971) Page 93 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

264. The deprivation of Plaintiff's Fifth Amendment constitutional rights to liberty and life by the USA proximately caused the death of Plaintiff Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight. 265. The USA created the foreseeable zone of risk which proximately caused the loss of liberty and life to Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight. 266. The conduct of the USA violated clearly established constitutional and statutory rights of which a reasonable person would have known. The USA is not entitled to qualified immunity. 267. The conduct of the USA is so egregious and so outrageous as to shock the conscience. 268. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight on September 16, 2013 occurred within the limits of the District of Columbia. 269. The wrongful death of Mary Frances DeLorenzo Knight was proximately caused by the deliberate indifference of the USA (d/b/a Department of Veterans Affairs). 270. Plaintiff, as lawfully appointed personal representative, is authorized to bring this action in the name of the personal representative of the estate of deceased Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight pursuant to DC code ยง16-2702 (2013).

Page 94 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

271. Plaintiff, as personal representative, brings this cause of action for damages caused to the Estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight and for damages to the next of kin pursuant to DC Code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) 272. The decedent Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight suffered and experienced severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress prior to her wrongful death. 273. The estate of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight lost probable future earnings, ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages in all other damages provided by DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) 274. As a Direct and foreseeable result of the negligence of the USA, proximately causing her wrongful death, the next of kin of Mary Frances Delorenzo Knight have suffered damages including severe pain, mental anguish and emotional distress, loss of probable future earnings, loss of ability to earn in the future, economic and noneconomic damages, reasonable expenses of burial, and other damages provided by law including DC code ยง12-101 et seq. (2013) and DC code ยง16-2701 et seq. (2013) WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays that the Court will: A.

Take jurisdiction of the parties and subject matter of this action.

Conduct a trial followed by entry of a Final Judgment for all Damages

provided by law in favor of the Estate and next of kin. Page 95 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial

Award attorneys fees and costs to the Plaintiff for bringing this action.

Enter such other and further relief as the court deems just in the

premises. Plaintiff demand trial by jury of all issues triable of right by a jury. Respectfully submitted,

__________________________ SIDNEY L. MATTHEW, ESQ. SIDNEY L. MATTHEW, P.A. Fl. Bar.: 193496 Post Office Box 1754 Tallahassee, Florida 32302 (850) 224-7887 Facsimile: (850) 681-3122 sidmatthew@earthlink.net Attorney for Plaintiff JUSTIN GIVENS, ESQ. JUSTIN GIVENS, P.A. Fl. Bar.: 52130 Post Office Box 12613 Tallahassee, Florida 32317 (850) 339-8049 givenslaw@gmail.com Attorney for Plaintiff

Page 96 of 96

Delorenzo v. United States of America, et al Complaint for Damages and Demand for Jury Trial