Army Veteran Files Lawsuit Against Casino Alleging Civil Rights Violations
82-Year-Old Army Veteran Challenges Casino Over Alleged False Detention
An 82-year-old Army veteran has initiated a federal lawsuit against Encore Boston Harbor casino along with several law enforcement agencies. The veteran claims he was wrongfully detained after a security alarm at the casino was triggered by medical implants in his leg.
Details of the Civil Rights Case Filed by Robert M. Joost
On July 9, 2026, Robert M. Joost filed a civil rights lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The defendants include the Everett Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, unspecified officers, and Encore Boston Harbor. Joost alleges false imprisonment, violations of civil rights, negligence, and emotional distress, seeking damages for the incident.
Incident Originates from Security Alarm Triggered by Medical Implants
The complaint focuses on an event that occurred on May 30, 2026, when Joost visited the casino. As a long-time patron since its opening in 2019, he had not faced any prior issues with security checks. During this visit, a security screening system was triggered upon his entry, which Joost attributes to metal rods implanted in his hip and upper leg due to surgery. He also referenced carrying other medical equipment related to his health.
Though initially cooperative, Joost became frustrated when asked for additional screening and chose to leave the premises. While attempting to board a casino shuttle outside, he was intercepted and prevented from leaving by casino security and police officers.
Claims of Detainment, Ban, and Emotional Harm
The lawsuit states police officers informed Joost that the alarm suggested the presence of a firearm. Joost denied carrying any weapon and explained that his medical implants or related items might have set off the alert. He recounts being surrounded by officers and repeatedly denied permission to leave until a check was completed, which lasted approximately 15 minutes. He was neither arrested nor charged during this time.
Following the security incident, casino authorities informed Joost that he was banned from re-entering Encore Boston Harbor and instructed him to leave the property immediately without waiting for another shuttle.
The veteran alleges that the incident caused him considerable humiliation and emotional distress. He is pursuing legal damages and seeks a formal declaration affirming that his rights were infringed. Joost has also requested a jury trial.
Current Status and Responses
The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs in Massachusetts. As of now, the Everett Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, and Encore Boston Harbor have not made any public statements regarding the lawsuit and its claims.
