NO CHARGES for Pulse Nightclub Owners: Families Outraged
— The Orlando Police Department has closed its investigation into the former owners of Pulse nightclub without filing any charges. Victims’ families and survivors had requested the probe, alleging criminal culpability. Police found no probable cause for involuntary manslaughter by culpable negligence.
About two dozen people, mostly survivors and family members of those who died in the 2016 shooting, gave statements to investigators. They cited issues like unavailable building plans, unpermitted renovations, and possible overcapacity at the club. Despite these claims, investigators concluded that these factors did not impede rescuers or contribute to the tragedy.
Investigators were unable to interview former owners Barbara and Rosario Poma but determined their actions didn’t show reckless disregard for human life. The report stated they couldn’t have reasonably anticipated a terrorist attack at Pulse nightclub.
A spokesperson for the Pomas declined to comment on Wednesday. On Facebook, Pulse Families and Survivors for Justice called the investigation a “sham.” The police report emphasized too many unknowns about how gunman Omar Mateen entered the club that night.