The Firm is representing on a pro bono basis Amanda Berry, her minor daughter, and Gina DeJesus, three of the victims in the Cleveland kidnapping and captivity case uncovered in early May. Cleveland partner James R. Wooley is leading the effort with the assistance of associate Heather E. Kimmel. The fourth victim, Michelle Knight, is represented by other counsel. The Firm is working alongside Ms. Knight’s lawyer and, at the request of that attorney, has acted as Ms. Knight’s spokesperson.
The representation came about when the FBI contacted the Firm and asked that we meet with the victims and their families shortly after their escape from more than a decade in captivity. The victims and their families then asked that we represent them. One victim stated, “The FBI said you are the lawyers we should trust, so that’s what we’re going to do.”
The Firm also is providing assistance to the Cleveland Courage Fund, which was set up to receive donations on behalf of the women. Cleveland Partner-in-Charge Chris Kelly is co-advisor to the Courage Fund, along with Tom Stevens, an executive with Firm client Key Bank. The Fund has raised more than $650,000 to date and is continuing to grow. Monies donated to the Fund will be distributed to the victims through trusts that are being created.
