NJ Man Put In Chokehold, Slammed To Ground By Bar Bouncers, Suit Says

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — A Sussex County man is suing a Pennsylvania restaurant and bar, claiming he was jumped by five security guards employed by the establishment.

Scott Somers is suing Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar in State College, Pa., just minutes away from Penn State University, after he was assaulted by bouncers, according to the suit.

On Feb. 24, 2024, Somers and his son were patrons at Primanti Bros., a chain sandwich shop and bar, when several people wearing “security” t-shirts confronted the son, the suit reads.

When Somers attempted to learn more about the confrontation, the security guards “violently and forcefully” grabbed the father and son duo and pulled them back through the entrance, outside, Somers claims.

Once outside, one of the security guards put Somers in a “choke hold” or “headlock” and threw him to the ground with force, while surrounded by five other bouncers, the suit reads.

Somers claims neither he nor his son initiated physical contact with any of the restaurant staff before the encounter. The suit doesn’t mention any injuries to Somers’ son.

Somers claims he was injured by the headlock and required a spinal fusion to correct it.

The suit claims Primanti Bros. and its owners were negligent and reckless for allowing the “outrageous” behavior and improperly training its security staff.

Somers is seeking both punitive and compensatory damages in a jury trial.

Patch has reached out to Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar representatives, who said they could not comment on ongoing litigation.