A Louisiana resident alleges that a local shopping center’s lack of accessibility prevents him from enjoying the same services as other members of the public, according to a recent federal court filing. The complaint was filed by Michael Lucas in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana on March 20, 2026, naming Daniel Wayne White as the defendant.
The legal action centers on claims that the property at 116 Georgia Avenue in Bogalusa, which includes a coffee shop among other businesses, is not accessible to individuals with mobility disabilities. According to the complaint, Lucas is a qualified individual with paraplegia who uses a wheelchair and lives less than one mile from the property. He alleges that during his most recent visit in February 2026, he encountered several architectural barriers that limited his ability to access goods and services offered at the location.
Lucas states that he has personally observed and is aware of multiple obstacles at the property. The complaint specifies: “There are no designated-accessible parking spaces at the Property; There is an impermissible step-up into the tenant spaces of the Property; and Other mobility-related ADA barriers to be identified following a complete inspection.” Lucas contends these conditions violate both Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provisions of the Louisiana Commission on Human Rights (LCHR).
The filing outlines why Lucas believes these claims are valid under federal and state law. It asserts that “the Property is a place of public accommodation” subject to ADA requirements and further notes that under LCHR statutes, it qualifies as a place serving or soliciting patronage from the general public. The complaint cites LA. REV. STAT. ANN. § 51:2247, which prohibits denying an individual full enjoyment of goods or services based on disability.
Lucas claims he intends to return to the property but fears encountering “the same barriers to access which are the subject of this action.” He argues that removal of these barriers would provide him “with an equal opportunity to participate in, or benefit from, the goods, services, and accommodations which are offered to the general public at the Property.” The suit alleges that correcting these issues is “readily achievable” and would not impose an undue burden on White.
In addition to declaratory relief confirming violations of federal and state law, Lucas seeks injunctive relief requiring White to alter the property so it becomes accessible for individuals with mobility disabilities. The plaintiff also requests compensatory damages for alleged injuries sustained due to what he describes as discriminatory conduct by White, along with reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs—including expert fees—and any other relief deemed necessary by the court.
The complaint was prepared by Andrew D. Bizer of The Bizer Law Firm LLC in New Orleans, who represents Michael Lucas in this matter. The case identification number is 2:26-cv-00611-DJP-DPC.
Source: 226cv00611_Michael_Lucas_v_Daniel_Wayne_Complaint_Eastern_District_of_Louisiana.pdf
