British pair plans to sue city, hotel

Times staff writer

© St. Petersburg Times, published July 1, 1999

ST. PETE BEACH -- The British couple who were recently arrested on felony child abuse charges after leaving their children alone in a local hotel room plan to sue the city of St. Pete Beach and the hotel, Tradewinds Resort.

Philip and Jill Adam, 35 and 33, of Yorkshire, have sent a notice of intent to sue, said their Clearwater attorney, John Trevena.

On May 30, the Adams went to watch fireworks at the pool and left their 1-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter sleeping in their room. The fireworks woke the daughter, who left the room and couldn't get back in. A stranger found her and called hotel security, who called St. Pete Beach police. Charges were later dropped.

Trevena said the Adams would sue the city and hotel because the arrests damaged their reputations. The city has six months to respond before a lawsuit can be filed.

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