05/30/2024
It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my client, Robert Hawes, who was facing charges of continuous sexual assault of a child in addition to other counts of sexual assault and sexual indecency with a child. Robert tragically took his own life before the conclusion of his retrial.
The legal proceedings in Robert’s case have been lengthy and arduous. His initial trial resulted in a hung jury after 16 hours of intense deliberation, indicating the complexities and difficulties faced by the jury in reaching a unanimous decision. Throughout both trials, Robert steadfastly maintained his innocence.
Robert had expressed deep concern about his ability to endure the stress of a retrial. The emotional and psychological toll of facing serious criminal charges had been immense. Despite his determination to clear his name, the weight of the legal battle proved to be overwhelming.
Today, I received a call from the foreperson of the jury in the retrial. In an extraordinary display of dignity and empathy, the foreperson informed me that the jury had reached a unanimous verdict before they became aware of Robert’s death. The verdict was not guilty on all charges. The foreperson’s decision to reach out personally reflects a profound sense of responsibility and humanity, aiming to provide some measure of closure in an otherwise tragic and unresolved situation.
I am honored and humbled that Robert trusted me with his defense. It has been a profound responsibility to advocate on his behalf and to ensure that his right to a fair trial was upheld. This not guilty verdict, had it been delivered in court, would have exonerated him of the charges against him. Unfortunately, he did not live to hear the jury’s decision. Robert’s tragic death underscores the profound personal toll that legal proceedings can have on those accused of serious crimes, irrespective of the eventual outcome.
His case highlights the importance of the presumption of innocence and the critical role that due process plays in our justice system. The not guilty verdict reached by the jury reaffirms the principle that every individual is considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
My heart goes out to Robert’s family during this incredibly difficult time. They have endured significant hardship and grief throughout these proceedings.
I also extend my deep appreciation to the jury, and particularly to the foreperson, for their integrity and dedication to their civic duty. The foreperson’s compassionate act of communicating the verdict shows a deep understanding of the human dimensions of justice and the impact of their role beyond the courtroom.
To those of you who have reached out to me already, I truly appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and condolences. I ask that the Hawes family’s privacy be respected as they navigate this tragedy and begin the process of healing.
