Fighting for people who have suffered from civil rights violations
When the police, the government go too far and violate the law; violate the very protections spelled out in the United States Constitution a civil rights case may be the only way to balance the injustice. The lawyer you select to represent you in these matters will have a real and lasting impact on your future.
For more than 27 years, attorney Michael B. Pasternak has been fighting against the odds to help those throughout Ohio. His skill, his tenacity and his dedication to excellence have helped him secure life-changing results for his clients.
Case Study: The East Cleveland Three
In 1995 Clifton Hudson was shot and killed on Strathmore Ave. in East Cleveland. All witnesses to the murder described a single shooter on foot. Three of those witnesses were teenagers who saw the murder from inside their vehicle; those three teenagers were Eugene Johnson 17, Laurese Glover 17 and Derrick Wheatt 16 (The East Cleveland Three). Another witness, 14-year-old Tamika Harris, told the police that she never saw the shooters face and could only identify the style of jacket that the shooter wore. Yet, East Cleveland detectives were able to shape her lack of “lack of knowledge” into a positive id; which ultimately resulted in Eugene, Derrick and Laurese being convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. The egregious conduct of the officers coupled with the complete lack of evidence, motive or coherent theory was remarkable. Within a few years after the trial, the State’s only “eye- witness”, Tamika, recanted and embarked on a crusade to clear the East Cleveland Three. Sadly, Tamika’s recantation was not enough. But, in 2013 evidence was uncovered proved that proof that East Cleveland Police buried evidence that corroborated the innocence of the East Cleveland Three. Finally, in 2015, after years of struggle and 20 years of imprisonment, lawyers were able to win the release and cause the criminal cases to be dismissed.
Michael, along with a team of civil rights lawyers, had the honor of filing and prosecuting the federal civil rights lawsuit. The claims against the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office were settled prior to trial for $4,500,000. The claims against the East Cleveland Detectives went to a jury trial. On November 15, 2018 the Jury returned a verdict for $15,000,000, finding that the detectives violated their Constitutional rights, causing them to be wrongfully convicted. In 2019, they were able to achieve an additional settlement from the State of Ohio for their 20 years of being wrongfully imprisoned.
Derrick, Eugene and Laurese’s journey was far more involved and sadly far darker than can be written in a short recap. But, what can be said is that three men who were wrongfully charged and convicted in 1995 have been exonerated and vindicated. While that measure of justice cannot make up for the 20 brutal years they spent in prison, cannot make up for their lost youth and their lost life-opportunities, it is nonetheless some measure of justice.
Standing By Your Side When The Stakes Are High
Michael B. Pasternak’s experience, talent and determination set him apart from competitors. He is not in it for a quick settlement; he is committed to getting you the compensation you need and deserve. You deserve more. Demand more. Call 216-360-8500 or send an email.
