Recently, a California crime victim filed a lawsuit against the online dating company Match.com because she was sexually assaulted by a man she met through their service. What is disturbing is that the man had been convicted six prior times of sexual crimes, yet Match.com allowed him to use their service to meet this woman. Read the full story here.
This lawsuit is a great example of third party liability. Although Match.com did not actually commit the violence against this victim, they are alleged to have contributed to her damages because they were negligent. In essence, had they been more careful in screening applicants, then this convicted sexual predator would not have been introduced to this unsuspecting victim. If it is found that Match.com’s lack of oversight was partially responsible for this attack, then they will be held financially responsible for her damages.
This lawsuit demonstrates that crime victims need to look at their whole situation when seeking a civil recovery. Although the actual attacker is an obvious target for a lawsuit, are there any other parties that can also be held responsible? A thorough investigation is necessary to make sure that all individuals and companies that contributed to the damage are held accountable.
Since this lawsuit was filed, Match.com has indicated that they will begin cross checking customer names with the National Sex Offender Registry. Such action demonstrates that lawsuits filed by victims can not only lead to a financial recovery, but can also force third parties to behave in a more responsible manner.
