Quadriplegic Teen Sues Juvenile Detention Center Over Injury

By Merylee Robbins

Published on February 24, 2006

Allen's lawsuit alleges that a center employee who had completed a successful flip on the ground, challenged Allen to attempt a back flip. Allen leapt from the picnic table, landing on his head and permanently damaged his spinal cord, which resulted in paralysis from the neck down. The suit claims that Garza County Regional Juvenile Center, which is run remotely by Colorado-based Cornerstone Programs Corp, was negligent in allowing this incident to occur. An investigation by the Texas Youth Commission determined that there was neglect by the employee involved.

Charlie Dunn, Allen's lawyer estimates that Artie will need at least $6 million to $7 million just to cover his future medical expenses, not taking into account his diminished quality of life, past medical expenses, pain and suffering. The lawsuit has been filed in Lubbock federal court.

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