Barriers at a fragrance retailer are preventing individuals who use wheelchairs from accessing goods and services, according to a new federal lawsuit that raises questions about compliance with disability rights laws. The complaint was filed by Graciela Doncouse in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on March 27, 2026, naming Ranger Station NYC Retail, LLC as the defendant.
The plaintiff alleges that Ranger Station NYC Retail operates a well-known fragrance store at 316 Bleecker Street in New York City and that she was unable to enter or enjoy the store due to architectural barriers. According to the filing, Doncouse is a paraplegic who uses a wheelchair for mobility and lives less than 0.8 miles from the store. She claims she attempted to visit the premises on August 16, 2025, as well as on other occasions, but was prevented from entering because of “a step leading to the entrance from the sidewalk.”
The complaint states: “Because the existing barriers prevent access and restrict the paths of travel… Plaintiff was unable to enter Defendant’s Premises.” It further alleges that these conditions denied her “full and equal access to, and full and equal enjoyment of” the commercial space. Doncouse asserts that no alternative stores offered the same variety of fragrances she sought to purchase at Ranger Station.
Doncouse claims that despite providing written notice to Ranger Station on February 10, 2026—informing them of alleged violations under federal, state, and city law—the company did not make changes to improve accessibility. The complaint states: “Despite various efforts to resolve the matter amicably… Defendant has still chosen to not create independent access.” It also notes that even after modifications were made when taking possession of the premises, “not such attempt was made to remove the barrier.”
The legal action is brought under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as provisions of both New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL). The suit outlines several specific alleged violations including lack of an accessible route from public sidewalks due to steps at entry; inaccessible merchandise displays; service counters exceeding allowable height; inadequate signage; lack of accessible emergency egress; and failure to maintain policies ensuring accessibility.
According to court documents, Doncouse seeks equitable relief including an order requiring Ranger Station NYC Retail to alter its premises so they are fully accessible in accordance with applicable standards. She requests a permanent injunction mandating immediate alterations or closure until compliance is achieved: “Should Defendant not immediately comply with this Court’s orders… the Court should immediately order the closure of Defendant’s Premises until such time that Defendant’s Premises is made fully compliant.”
In addition to injunctive relief, Doncouse asks for compensatory damages in amounts to be determined at trial or by the court under each relevant statute. She also seeks punitive damages for what she describes as willful conduct by Ranger Station NYC Retail in maintaining an inaccessible facility over several years. Further remedies requested include disgorgement of profits derived while allegedly operating in violation of accessibility laws.
The complaint emphasizes ongoing harm suffered by Doncouse due to her inability to shop at her neighborhood store: “Plaintiff continues to reside in New York and desires to visit Defendant’s Premises in the future but continues to be injured by Defendant’s failure…” It also asserts there may be additional violations yet unidentified pending further inspection.
The plaintiff is represented by Bradly G Marks of The Marks Law Firm PC, located at 155 E 55th Street, Suite 4H, New York NY 10022. The case is identified as Civil Action No. 1:26-cv-2554.
Source: 126cv2554_Graciela_Doncouse_v_Rangger_Station_Complaint_Southern_District_of_New_York.pdf
