“It’s almost like if you give your son the keys to a brand new Corvette when he turns 16,” said Roberto Blanch, a South Florida attorney, “You may be seen as enabling the occurrence or the loss.”
Zimmerman was definitely recognized and endorsed by the association. In a newsletter, under a heading called “Neighborhood Watch,” the message recommended residents call police, and then “please contact our Captain, George Zimmerman … so he can be aware and help address the issue with other residents.”
This relationship to Zimmerman follows an increasing series of burglaries in the area, making him welcome by many.
Since he started working there, police dispatchers have received 46 calls from him since 2004
If the Martin family succeeds in a suit against the homeowners, the neighborhood association won’t have deep pockets with which to pay. The reserves of such organizations cover typically no more than $1 million. The townhouse complex will have to increase fees to each of the residents.
The Retreat at Twin Lakes homeowners association has made no comment.