Full Breakdown
$779 Million Verdict for Family of Security Guard Killed in Florida Internet Cafe Shooting
12/12/2025, 8:55:10 PM
Overview of the Incident
In November 2023, Lewis Butler, a security guard, was fatally shot while attempting to protect a cashier during an armed robbery at an internet gambling cafe in Havana, Florida. The incident led to a Gadsden County jury awarding Butler's family a $779 million verdict, believed to be the largest in the county's history. The shooter, Kevontae Washington, was convicted of first-degree murder and other charges related to the incident on November 5, 2023.
Legal Proceedings and Findings
The wrongful death lawsuit was filed against the cafe's operators, Fortune MGT 2023 LLC and Manishkumar Patel, by civil rights attorney Ben Crump. The lawsuit alleged that the cafe failed to report a prior robbery that occurred on October 25, 2023, and ignored known security risks, despite being aware of illegal gambling activities at the location. An investigator from the State Attorney's Office testified that a firearm stolen during the October robbery was later used in Butler's murder.
The jury awarded $550 million for pain and suffering and $225 million for loss of companionship, while punitive damages were not considered. Crump emphasized that the verdict was not only meant to compensate the family but also to highlight the need for legislative changes regarding illegal gambling cafes.
Calls for Legislative Action
Following the verdict, Butler's widow, Kimberly Butler, expressed her determination to advocate for the closure of internet gambling cafes, which she believes contribute to criminal activity. Crump announced plans to push for the "Lewis Butler Act," aimed at increasing oversight and penalties for illegal gambling operations in Florida. He stated, “We’re calling on Florida lawmakers and the Gaming Control Commission to take immediate action: increase penalties, strengthen oversight, and shut down these illegal gambling cafés before any more families lose their loved ones.”
Challenges in Collecting the Verdict
Despite the substantial award, questions remain regarding the feasibility of collecting the payout. Crump indicated that his team would pursue garnishments and liens on the cafe owners' properties and bank accounts to ensure compensation for Butler's family. The cafe's owner, Patel, has not publicly commented on the case.
Background on Internet Gambling Cafes in Florida
Florida has been grappling with illegal internet gambling cafes since the passage of a law in 2013 aimed at curbing such operations. These establishments, often disguised as internet cafes, offer gambling-like experiences and have been difficult to regulate due to the low penalties associated with violations. Law enforcement has struggled to shut down these venues, which frequently reopen under new names after being closed.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Lewis Butler has sparked significant legal and legislative responses aimed at addressing the risks associated with internet gambling cafes in Florida. The substantial jury award serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting safety in such establishments, while the Butler family's advocacy may lead to further changes in state gambling laws.
