Akron, OH Criminal Defense Attorney News Archive (Page 2)

In a tragic case highlighting the urgent need for better child protection laws, Demetres Givens and Jamie Thompson from Canton have been sentenced for their involvement in the death of their 3-year-old son. A Stark County judge found the couple guilty of involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment, following their negligence in addressing their child's health needs, which resulted in severe malnutrition.

Local prosecutors emphasized that Givens and Thompson failed to seek essential medical care for their son. Their actions underscore the serious vulnerabilities that can occur within family dynamics.

Community leaders and family advocates are now calling for stronger child welfare systems in Cleveland and nearby areas to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. As discussions around family law and criminal defense gain traction, this heartbreaking incident sheds light on the critical relationship between employment stability and parental responsibility.

In a notable turn of events in the Aliza Sherman murder case, defense attorney Jon Paul Rion has officially withdrawn his motion seeking changes to Gregory Moore's $2 million bond. Moore is facing murder charges related to the 2013 death of Sherman, who visited Moore's law office in downtown Cleveland for a divorce consultation.

The prosecution, led by Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Kevin Filiatraut, opposed the bond modification. They argued that all pertinent evidence, including surveillance footage and the data from Moore's confiscated cell phone, has already been shared with the defense.

Set to commence in September, the trial is expected to draw significant public interest. As the case progresses, it raises important discussions about the challenges faced in both the criminal defense and corporate law sectors in Cleveland. The unfolding legal proceedings are sure to highlight various strategies employed by both parties within the justice system.

On the evening of February 18, a tragic hit-and-run incident in Cleveland left 37-year-old Chiquitta D. Brown dead and another pedestrian seriously injured. According to Cleveland police, the 21-year-old driver fled the scene after hitting the victims while they were in a crosswalk on Eddy Road near Hazeldell Road.

The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner confirmed the identity of Brown, while the other injured pedestrian, who is 42 years old, is currently recovering in the hospital. Local authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, raising critical questions about accountability in motor vehicle accidents and pedestrian safety.

Legal experts specializing in civil litigation and personal injury law are expected to keep a close eye on the case. As the situation unfolds, potential victims may pursue justice and claims for damages stemming from this tragic event.

Andres Andino, a 60-year-old parish employee from Cleveland, has been acquitted of several felony charges, including rape and sexual battery. These accusations dated back to incidents that allegedly occurred between 2013 and 2018. The case has raised important questions about employment regulations and the protection of vulnerable individuals within roles of authority.

Andino was arrested during a Sunday Mass, but he maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings. His legal team successfully defended him against the allegations, culminating in a trial that ended on February 18.

This verdict underscores the necessity of strong criminal defense strategies in sensitive civil litigation cases, particularly those involving alleged misconduct by employees in faith-based organizations across Greater Cleveland. As the verdict is delivered, discussions about employment safeguards and accountability in such institutions continue to be of utmost relevance.

City officials, including Mayor Justin Bibb and City Council President Blaine Griffin, are pushing for an end to the federal oversight of the Cleveland Division of Police. This request follows a recent assessment that highlights more than a decade of compliance efforts.

Federal monitors have reported significant progress in police reforms, particularly in areas such as recruitment, training, and use of force. U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno has also weighed in, previously advocating for a reevaluation of the consent decree, which he argues has hindered law enforcement and placed financial burdens on taxpayers.

Local leaders emphasize that accountability has become a fundamental part of Cleveland's policing practices. They believe this development enables the community to regain control over its police force. To formalize this transition, the city plans to file a motion in federal court, backed by key partners, marking a crucial step towards self-governance in law enforcement.

In a notable development in the 2013 murder case of Aliza Sherman, accused Gregory Moore is seeking modifications to his bond conditions in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. His attorney, Jon Paul Rion, contends that Moore should be permitted to visit a family member in Solon, Ohio, and to retrieve his confiscated iPhone for further analysis related to his defense.

Prosecutors, including Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Kevin Filiatraut, have expressed serious concerns about this requested bond modification. They oppose any changes to the existing restrictions, which were initially set with input from the victim's family to ensure their interests are protected.

Furthermore, the defense is advocating to review surveillance footage linked to the case, particularly in light of recent revelations about missing video evidence from the crucial period surrounding the murder. As the trial date approaches, the court's decision on these matters could play a pivotal role in shaping Moore's legal strategy in this high-profile civil litigation case.

Authorities are investigating a bold bank robbery that took place at the 5/3rd Bank located on Lakeshore Blvd in Euclid. The incident, which occurred around 12:45 p.m., involved a suspect who allegedly threatened a teller with a note claiming there was a bomb inside a shoebox.

The FBI Cleveland, alongside local law enforcement from the Euclid Police Department, quickly responded to the scene. Witnesses described the suspect as a man between the ages of 50 and 60. He fled the area in a blue Chevy Impala that did not have license plates.

Community leaders are calling on residents to provide any information that could help solve this crime. They emphasize the critical role that public cooperation plays in these cases. The FBI is encouraging anonymous tips submitted online, as their efforts focus on enhancing safety for businesses and individuals in Cleveland and the surrounding areas.

Dr. Feras S. Hamdan, a resident of Westlake, Ohio, has reached a plea agreement regarding a road rage incident involving Congressman Max Miller. The confrontation, which took place in May 2025 on Interstate 90 East, resulted in felony charges being downgraded to misdemeanors after Hamdan allegedly threatened Miller, a Jewish-American. The incident sparked accusations of antisemitism against Hamdan.

In a notable turn, Dr. Hamdan is now pursuing legal action for defamation against Congressman Miller. He is being represented by the Pattakos Law Firm based in Cleveland and contends that evidence from his Tesla supports his claims and contradicts Miller's statements. Despite the reduction of his charges to disorderly conduct, which allows him to maintain his medical license, Hamdan's attorney asserts that the lawsuit is intended to restore his client's reputation and challenge perceived bias.

As this case unfolds, legal experts are monitoring its potential implications for civil litigation and corporate reputations in Cleveland, highlighting the complexities of the region's legal landscape.

CLEVELAND – Derrek Dove, 20, has been indicted on multiple charges, including aggravated murder, following the tragic shooting death of 56-year-old Lyft driver Antoine Magel Latham. The Cuyahoga County grand jury reached this decision after a thorough investigation by local police, who used ride-sharing records and surveillance footage to draw connections in the case.

Prosecutor Michael O'Malley highlighted the gravity of the situation, calling it a "cold and deliberate act" and voicing his commitment to seeking justice for Latham's family. This incident is notably one of two recent murders involving rideshare drivers in Cleveland, prompting significant concerns regarding civil litigation and public safety within the business sector.

In response to these alarming events, local officials have pledged to improve security measures for rideshare drivers in the community as investigations continue.

In a major case of civil litigation and criminal defense, Jeffrey Grant, 35, and Lanaemarshe Grant, 34, have been convicted on multiple charges, including murder and drug-related offenses. This decision stems from the tragic shooting of 10-year-old Kaden Coleman, which occurred last year in Cleveland. Kaden was shot in the head while sitting in the back of a car on Edgewood Avenue as the Grants approached.

Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley emphasized that the jury's verdict serves as a means of delivering justice and holding the defendants accountable for their roles in this heartbreaking incident. The investigation uncovered a drug laboratory in a home located in Maple Heights, further highlighting the troubling connection between crime and community safety in the area.

Sentencing for Jeffrey and Lanaemarshe Grant is set for March 5. In the meantime, families and citizens of Cleveland continue to grapple with the consequences of this violence that has profoundly impacted their community.

CLEVELAND – A tragic accident in the east side of Cleveland early Saturday morning claimed the life of a 25-year-old woman and left a 28-year-old driver injured. Local police arrived at the scene of the crash at St. Clair Avenue and East 107th Street, where they indicated that excessive speed might have contributed to the accident.

This incident underscores the urgent need for civil litigation focused on traffic safety in the community, prompting residents to reflect on road safety measures. As the investigation unfolds, no charges have been filed yet, raising important questions about potential liability under personal injury law.

Legal experts in Cleveland are calling for heightened awareness regarding safe driving practices and seatbelt usage, aiming to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Body camera footage from the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office highlights the effective work of Deputy Jim DeCredico and his K-9 partner, Felix, in apprehending 19-year-old Delshawn Durval Legg in connection with a robbery of a U.S. mail carrier in Akron. This incident unfolded on December 29, when Legg and his accomplices allegedly threatened the carrier at gunpoint, sparking a multi-agency investigation that included local police, the FBI, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Following the robbery, law enforcement tracked the vehicle involved to Cleveland, where a coordinated response was initiated to apprehend the suspects quickly. Lt. Miguel Carabello praised the collaboration among various law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the critical role of teamwork in successful criminal defense operations.

As the investigation progresses, both Legg and his accomplice now face serious federal legal repercussions. This case is not only significant for its criminal elements but also raises important issues related to civil litigation stemming from their alleged criminal activities.

CLEVELAND — A late-night shooting on Buckeye Road left a 19-year-old hospitalized in stable condition after being shot in the leg on Thursday. The Fourth District police quickly responded to reports of the incident, which involved a suspect already known to authorities.

The 21-year-old assailant is believed to have stolen the firearm during a previous incident in Strongsville. This situation has raised alarm within the criminal defense and personal injury law communities regarding the implications of gun ownership in residential areas.

As the investigation continues, local legal experts are stressing the necessity of understanding real estate law in relation to firearm ownership. Meanwhile, residents of Cleveland are advocating for increased safety measures as charges against the suspect remain pending.

The Cleveland community is grieving the tragic loss of 56-year-old Antoine Latham, a valued Lyft driver and a devoted bus operator for children with special needs. Latham's father, Canoles Hutson, is heartbroken, expressing his profound love for his son and questioning the senseless violence that took his life. The murder occurred during an alleged robbery involving 20-year-old Derrek Dove from Garfield Heights on Rosehill Avenue.

This incident, which marks Latham as the first of two Lyft drivers killed in less than 30 hours, has sparked urgent discussions about civil litigation and criminal defense as investigations continue. In their quest for justice, Antoine’s family has established a support fund to help his loved ones, particularly his children and grandchildren, who were the center of his life.

Local officials and community leaders are stressing the critical need for safety reforms within Cleveland's rideshare systems and transportation infrastructure as they work to prevent such tragedies in the future.

CLEVELAND, OH - A 20-year-old man is now in custody following the tragic deaths of two Lyft drivers, including the victim Latham, who was fatally shot on Rosehill Avenue. Authorities have executed a search warrant in nearby Garfield Heights, which resulted in the seizure of multiple firearms that are believed to be linked to the suspect. The identity of the suspect has not yet been disclosed as formal charges are still pending.

Cleveland Police are working diligently to uncover the motives behind these disturbing killings, with robbery and potential carjacking being examined as possible factors. As part of the investigation, they are also looking into a separate but possibly related incident that occurred on 84th Street. Public Information Officer Sgt. Freddy Diaz confirmed that both victims were driving for Lyft and highlighted the department's commitment to establishing any connections between the two cases.

In support of their civil litigation and criminal defense efforts, the Cleveland Police are collaborating with Lyft to analyze digital data from the drivers' phones and ride histories. This comprehensive approach aims to provide crucial insights into the incidents as the investigation progresses.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Ohio Supreme Court gathered in Columbus to discuss the significant case of State v. Bissell. This case revolves around Leander Bissell, who tragically caused the death of Cleveland firefighter Johnny Tetrick while Tetrick was responding to an accident on Interstate 90.

Initially convicted of murder in 2023, Bissell's charge was later downgraded to involuntary manslaughter by the Ohio Eighth District Court of Appeals, which cited a lack of evidence for "knowing criminal conduct." During the hearing, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Wajda argued that the lower court misapplied the law, while defense attorney Tim Sweeney emphasized that Bissell takes responsibility for his reckless actions.

The emotional impact of the case on Tetrick's family was palpable, with his daughter voicing their deep yearning for justice throughout the ongoing legal proceedings. Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy noted that the Supreme Court's decision will be crucial, with far-reaching implications for civil litigation and criminal defense in Ohio.

Cleveland police are actively investigating the tragic shooting death of 56-year-old Lyft driver Antoine Latham. He was discovered critically injured after a crash on Rosehill Avenue on February 8. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are collaborating closely with Lyft representatives to gather crucial evidence.

Local civil litigation experts are closely monitoring the ramifications of this incident for ride-hailing companies operating in the Cleveland area. This case highlights significant concerns regarding the safety of gig economy workers, prompting discussions about the legal implications they face in such violent situations.

Elected officials are expected to address community safety issues at upcoming town meetings in neighborhoods near East 103rd Street. Although no arrests have been made, the case underscores the urgent need for robust criminal defense strategies in the face of rising violence that affects drivers like Latham.

The Cleveland community is in mourning, rallying for enhanced safety measures in response to this shocking event. The loss of Antoine Latham resonates deeply, sparking calls for action to protect those working in the gig economy.

In a significant move, the Cleveland City Council has officially passed Tanisha's Law, setting up a Department of Community Crisis Response. This new department aims to enhance the city's approach to mental health emergencies.

Ward 8 representative Stephanie Howse-Jones expressed her support for the legislation, highlighting its potential to prevent tragic incidents like the death of Tanisha Anderson, who died while in police custody during a mental health crisis back in 2014.

Tanisha's Law introduces unarmed crisis response teams, which will help alleviate pressure on traditional emergency services such as police and EMS. This initiative provides a crucial lifeline for residents experiencing mental health challenges.

Additionally, the law will involve expanded training for police officers, ensuring they are better prepared for employment in situations that require sensitivity and understanding of mental health issues.

With Mayor Justin Bibb expected to sign the legislation this week, there is a sense of hope that Tanisha’s Law will usher in meaningful change for the Cleveland community.

In a significant update on the murder trial of Gregory Moore, his attorney, Jon Paul Rion, plans to file a motion to dismiss the charges linked to the death of Aliza Sherman. Sherman was tragically killed in Downtown Cleveland while seeking legal assistance for her divorce case.

The prosecution in Cuyahoga County claims to have collected evidence from cell phones and computers to bolster their case against Moore. However, Rion contends that delays in the legal proceedings provide sufficient grounds for dismissal. Moore has consistently maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges as his trial continues to be postponed, now extending into mid-September.

Friends of Aliza Sherman, including Maria Zoul, have voiced their frustration over the lengthy process, underscoring the importance of achieving timely justice. This ongoing case brings to light critical issues at the intersection of civil litigation and criminal defense within Cleveland’s judicial system.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, police in Cleveland successfully handled a standoff that began as a domestic disturbance near W. 73rd Street and Dearborn Avenue. The situation involved a man in his 40s, who was believed to be armed. Authorities worked diligently to ensure the safety of a woman and child, who were eventually rescued from the residence.

This incident shines a light on significant concerns regarding civil litigation in domestic cases, as well as the critical need for effective criminal defense strategies during such confrontations. Local leaders, including members of the Cleveland City Council, have emphasized the importance of mental health resources to prevent these types of situations from escalating.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the standoff, allowing families in the surrounding area to feel secure once again.