Las Vegas Security Guard Sentenced in Customer’s Death Over COVID Rules

Former 7-Eleven Security Guard Sentenced to Prison for Fatal Shooting Over pandemic Protocols

Las Vegas,NV – A former 7-Eleven security guard has been sentenced to five years in prison for the fatal shooting of a customer,Tommy Martin,during a dispute over COVID-19 protocols. The incident occurred at a Las Vegas 7-Eleven store in 2020.

the security guard, identified as [Mitchell’s first name not provided in the article], was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter. Prosecutors argued that she abused her authority, escalating a minor altercation into a deadly confrontation. The defense contended that Mitchell faced immense pressure enforcing pandemic guidelines at the time.

According to court testimony, the altercation began when Tommy Martin cut in line. Mitchell then reportedly initiated physical contact, grabbing Martin’s shirt. The situation escalated when Mitchell drew a firearm and placed it against Martin’s face. Martin attempted to disarm her multiple times before being shot.

Clark County prosecutors highlighted a separate incident occurring 19 days prior to Martin’s death, where Mitchell was recorded dragging a customer across the store’s parking lot. This incident was used to demonstrate a pattern of excessive force and abuse of power. Chief Deputy District Attorney Christopher Hamner emphasized that the 7-Eleven shooting was an isolated incident attributable to Mitchell’s misuse of her authority, contrasting it with the general safety of convenience store clerks during the pandemic.Judge Tierra Jones acknowledged the complexity of the case,stating that the events outside the store,referring to the prior customer dragging incident,were a significant factor in her decision.

Following the sentencing, Tommy Martin’s son, Brandon Martin, expressed his relief, stating, “JUSTICE FOR MY DAD. REST IN HEAVEN DAD WE GOT HER TODAY, IT WON’T TAKE THE PAIN AWAY OF LOSING YOU BUT AT LEAST SHE’S FINALLY GOING AWAY AFTER 5 YEARS.” He further recounted his father’s bravery, noting that his father “was not afraid of that gun, swatted it away at least 5 times.”

What legal and ethical considerations should security personnel weigh when enforcing public health mandates like mask requirements?

The Case: A Tragic Escalation at the Fremont Hotel & Casino

In a landmark case highlighting the tensions surrounding COVID-19 protocols,a Las Vegas security guard,Bailey Colucci,was sentenced on July 10,2025,for her role in the death of Desmond Bruner at the Fremont Hotel & Casino in December 2020. the sentencing brings a close to a highly publicized trial that sparked debate about the extent of authority granted to security personnel enforcing public health mandates. The incident, initially reported as an assault, quickly became a focal point in discussions about excessive force and the implementation of COVID-19 safety measures.

the Incident & Initial Examination

Desmond Bruner, a 42-year-old California resident, was visiting Las Vegas when he was involved in an altercation wiht Bailey Colucci, a security guard at the Fremont Hotel. Reports indicate Bruner was asked to wear a mask, refused, and became verbally confrontational. Colucci, along with another security guard, attempted to escort Bruner off the property.

Witness accounts and security footage revealed a physical struggle ensued.

Colucci restrained Bruner, applying a neck restraint – a technique that ultimately led to his death.

The Clark County Coroner ruled Bruner’s death a homicide, citing positional asphyxia as the cause.

Initial investigations by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) focused on whether the use of force was justified given Bruner’s resistance and the hotel’s COVID-19 policies. The case quickly drew scrutiny from civil rights groups and advocates concerned about police brutality and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 restrictions on minority communities.

The Trial & Legal Arguments

The trial centered on the legality and appropriateness of the neck restraint used by Colucci. The prosecution argued that the restraint was excessive and unneeded, leading directly to Bruner’s death. They presented expert testimony questioning the safety of such techniques, notably in the context of a non-violent confrontation.Key arguments included:

1. Excessive Force: The prosecution emphasized that Bruner posed no immediate threat justifying the use of a potentially lethal restraint.
2. COVID-19 Policy Enforcement: The defence attempted to frame the incident as a necessary response to enforcing the hotel’s COVID-19 mask mandate,arguing Colucci was protecting other patrons. This argument was largely dismissed by the jury.
3. Training & Protocol: The defense also highlighted Colucci’s security training, claiming she acted within the scope of her authorized procedures. However, the prosecution countered with evidence suggesting the training was inadequate and did not adequately address the risks associated with neck restraints.

Sentencing & Charges

Bailey Colucci was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter. On July 10, 2025, she was sentenced to a term of 3 to 10 years in prison. The judge acknowledged the tough circumstances and the emotional toll on all parties involved, but emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the need for accountability.

Involuntary Manslaughter: Defined as unlawfully killing someone without malice aforethought, but through criminal negligence.

Potential Civil Lawsuits: The Bruner family is expected to pursue a civil lawsuit against the Fremont Hotel & Casino and Securitas Security Services, the company that employed Colucci.

Impact on Security Protocols & COVID-19 Enforcement

The Bruner case has prompted a re-evaluation of security protocols at Las Vegas casinos and hotels, and also a broader discussion about the enforcement of COVID-19 related regulations.

Neck Restraint Restrictions: Several major casino operators have announced stricter limitations on the use of neck restraints by security personnel,with some banning the technique altogether.

De-escalation Training: Increased emphasis is being placed on de-escalation training for security guards, focusing on verbal communication and conflict resolution techniques.

Policy Review: Hotels and casinos are reviewing their COVID-19 enforcement policies to ensure they are clear, consistent, and do not rely on overly aggressive tactics.

Legal Precedent: This case sets a legal precedent regarding the use of force during the enforcement of public health mandates, potentially influencing future cases involving similar incidents.

Related Search Terms & Keywords

Las Vegas security guard trial

Desmond Bruner death

Fremont Hotel incident

COVID-19 enforcement Las Vegas

Neck restraint controversy

Involuntary manslaughter sentencing

Casino security