Katrina Victims: Justice is Coming

My friends: I regret to inform you that I was indicted this afternoon by the U.S. Attorney’s office in Los Angeles on charges of campaign contribution irregularities.

Although I can’t comment on these charges, I want you to know that this in no way lessens my resolve to aggressively pursue the pending Katrina lawsuit. The trial is now scheduled for early next year and we will get justice for the victims of this man-made disaster.

I also want everyone to know that I have been overwhelmed by your expressions of support. I am humbled and I want to assure you that I am going to fight these charges with unbridled ferocity.

Here is the statement my legal team released today:

July 24, 2008

STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO TODAY’S ANNOUNCEMENT BY U.S. ATTORNEY

“We are very disappointed at the U.S. Attorney's choice here because it risks imposing a professional death sentence on a lawyer with a record of stellar accomplishment and high ethical behavior,” said attorney George Terwilliger, a lead member of O’Donnell’s legal team.

Terwilliger added: “To threaten the career of a lawyer with Pierce O’Donnell’s distinguished credentials is grossly disproportionate to the alleged offense. One of the fundamental objectives of this law is to prevent the hiding of campaign donations from ineligible contributors such as foreign officials and corporations. The facts in this case show a marginal violation at best. Indeed, Mr. O’Donnell has completely cooperated with authorities, released all of his financial records voluntarily and acknowledged his actions.”

An O’Donnell spokesperson said: “Mr. O’Donnell regrets this incident and is embarrassed by his conduct. He is a 61-year-old trial lawyer who has a wife and three young children. He intends to fight to save his reputation and his livelihood so he may continue to devote his career to the well being of his clients, including the victims of Hurricane Katrina.”

Pierce O’Donnell is represented by attorneys George Terwilliger, Brian O’Neill and Mark Tuohey.

For information, contact Glenn F. Bunting or Tom Furlong at Sitrick And Co. (310) 788-2850.