Ohio Attorney News Archive (Page 41)

In a dramatic courtroom encounter in Cuyahoga County, Attorney Kevin Spellacy raised concerns about potential misconduct by MetroHealth Medical Center. He argued that the hospital may have withheld vital emails in a civil litigation case linked to their former CEO, Dr. Akram Boutros, who was terminated in 2022.

The hearing revealed that MetroHealth discovered archived emails only after a whistleblower alerted Boutros's legal team. This revelation prompted Spellacy to challenge the hospital’s assertion that all documents had been provided, leading Judge Shannon Gallagher to permit further investigations into the matter.

While attorneys for MetroHealth, including Mark Wallach, denied any intent to conceal evidence, the ongoing dispute underscores the complexities surrounding employment practices and corporate transparency within Cleveland's healthcare sector. As the trial date approaches, both parties are expected to continue exchanging evidence, with increasing calls for an independent review of the hospital's records.

Cleveland Heights is set to say goodbye to Voodoo Brewery on December 20. Owners Don Trivisonno and Cathy Zalocki have announced the closure of their beloved establishment after four years in operation. Trivisonno described his experience running the brewery as a "labor of love," mentioning the various challenges they faced, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Located near the Cedar Lee area, Voodoo Brewery had built a strong following, exemplifying the vibrant small business community in Cleveland. As the brewery prepares to close its doors, legal experts are stressing the importance of understanding real estate law and estate planning for businesses navigating such transitions.

Local officials and business leaders are encouraging residents to continue supporting the remaining local enterprises during this pivotal time for the community.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is pushing for a total ban on synthetic kratom, fueled by growing safety concerns in Cleveland and surrounding areas. This effort comes after a thorough review by the state health department, which has connected kratom to more than 200 overdose deaths in the past five years.

State officials have reported a notable increase in emergency calls related to kratom use, leading the governor to request an emergency rule from the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. The call for action has sparked a debate among legal experts and community advocates in the Cleveland region. Some are urging for clearer regulations distinguishing between synthetic and natural forms of kratom.

As discussions unfold, all eyes are on the Drug Enforcement Administration, which is set to make decisions regarding the status of 7-hydroxymitragynine in the spring. This decision could have significant ramifications for Ohio’s legislative landscape concerning business practices and employment within the kratom industry.

Early Sunday morning, a tragic shooting on East 93rd Street in Cleveland claimed the life of 23-year-old Devanaireon Marcus from Garfield Heights. Three other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries. This incident has raised serious concerns about public safety in the community.

The Cleveland Division of Police is actively investigating the case, but as of now, no suspects have been identified. Legal experts specializing in civil litigation and criminal defense suggest that the ongoing developments could have significant implications for those involved.

In light of this event, residents and city officials are urging the need for enhanced measures to improve community safety. There is also a push for increased support in the realm of personal injury law as Cleveland navigates the repercussions of this unfortunate incident.

As frigid temperatures and wind chills plunge below zero in Northeast Ohio, several warming centers will open in Cleveland on December 15 to protect residents from the extreme cold. Key locations like the Michael Zone Recreation Center and the EJ Kovacic Recreation Center will offer vital shelter. Additionally, the Summit Lake Community Center in Akron will be part of this initiative, operating from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cleveland’s Mayor Justin Bibb emphasizes the importance of these facilities during such challenging winter conditions. Local officials are keen on ensuring the safety of all residents as they navigate this severe weather.

Experts in business and corporate law also highlight the pressing need for community support and infrastructure during these times. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the warming centers—not only for their health and safety but also to prevent potential issues with estates and property that can arise due to the harsh climate. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to public welfare in the face of relentless winter challenges.

CLEVELAND – A tragic incident unfolded at the Puritas Avenue RTA station on Sunday evening when 27-year-old Benjamin McComas from Avon Lake was shot and killed. Cleveland RTA police have arrested a suspect in connection with the shooting, but their identity has not yet been released as the investigation is ongoing.

Local legal experts are highlighting the significance of civil litigation and criminal defense in the aftermath of this event. They urge the community to extend compassion to McComas's family during this difficult time.

As the details of this personal injury law case are examined, community leaders are advocating for enhanced safety measures at public transportation hubs throughout the Cleveland area.

Abbott Laboratories has issued a critical warning to users in California and across the country regarding potential malfunctions in its FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus glucose monitors. These issues could lead to severe diabetes mismanagement and have been linked to seven deaths and over 700 injuries worldwide.

Healthcare professionals are stressing the urgency of discontinuing the use of these devices immediately. Abbott has noted that nearly half of the sensors could already be expired or actively being used, raising concerns for countless users.

In an effort to prioritize consumer safety, Abbott will replace the affected models at no cost to users. Legal experts in business and corporate law highlight the possibility of a significant increase in personal injury claims related to these faulty medical devices.

Residents of Los Angeles and other cities in California are especially encouraged to check their devices against Abbott’s records. Additionally, they should consult with a healthcare professional if they experience any unusual symptoms.

In a high-stakes legal battle, former MetroHealth CEO Dr. Akram Boutros claims he was wrongfully terminated after the board dismissed him amid controversy over $1.9 million in self-awarded bonuses. Boutros is now pursuing civil litigation, seeking over $28 million in damages. The hospital, however, counters that Boutros lacked transparency in his financial dealings.

Adding to the turmoil, Boutros' successor, Airica Steed, is also filing a wrongful termination claim. She alleges racial discrimination and asserts her dismissal was unwarranted, notably during her medical leave.

In a separate but significant issue, copper theft is increasingly plaguing Cleveland. This crime has impacted essential infrastructure, including street lights and trails like the Red Line Greenway, prompting public officials to seek solutions.

As these legal and civic challenges unfold, the final pre-trial meeting for Boutros' case is set for December 15, with the trial expected to begin in late January.

At the final meeting of 2025, Cleveland Commissioner Shandra Moreira-Benito expressed her frustrations regarding the Cleveland Community Police Commission's progress in meeting community expectations set by Issue 24. This issue granted civilian oversight the final authority on police disciplinary actions, and many members, including co-chair John Adams, conveyed a growing urgency for the commission to act more decisively.

The meeting, taking place in the heart of Cleveland, highlighted operational challenges due to staffing shortages that have impacted the commission’s efficiency. Participants discussed important topics, including upcoming changes in leadership within the commission and necessary updates to policies related to real estate law. A significant point of concern was the deployment of surveillance technology by the Cleveland Division of Police.

Looking ahead to 2026, new nominations for co-chairs are on the agenda, signaling ongoing efforts to bolster accountability in local law enforcement. Community members voiced their strong desire for these issues to be addressed, advocating for a more transparent and effective policing environment in Cleveland.