Prell Hotel Corp. v. Antonacci

OPINION

By the Court,

Thompson, J.:

An invited guest was playing “21” at the Alladin Hotel casino owned by Prell Hotel Corp. He was served several free drinks while so engaged. He lost his money, became angered and called the dealer a hateful, degrading name. The dealer reacted by punching the guest in the eye rendering him unconscious. Subsequently, the guest sued the hotel for damages, and a jury favored him with its verdict. Following entry of judgment the hotel appealed. The main issue is whether the assault and battery by the employee may be deemed to have occurred within the course and…