Wrongfully Silenced. Unstoppable Hope.
About Robert
When he was 21, Robert Ruark defended his family against armed neighbors. However, his lawyer refused to present a self-defense case. Instead, Robert was convicted of murder.
Today, at 38, he has earned his degree, trains rescue dogs, and mentors others. In short, he has turned tragedy into purpose.
The Case in Brief
Denied a Defense, Yet Still ConvictedRobert Ruark fired his trial attorney, Chris Cicero, months before the trial. Cicero manipulated the court and was permitted to keep representing him. As a result, the jury never heard from numerous defense eyewitnesses, nor did the jury hear any defense. Cicero was later found to be a "danger to the public" for similar manipulative behavior. He has since been disbarred for falsifying information to courts for personal gain. With today's Stand Your Ground laws, Robert Ruark almost certainly would have been found to have acted in defense of his younger brother, who was being violently assaulted at gunpoint. It's even possible that he may never have been charged.
And, those who know Robert say it best:
I’ve met few people so committed to helping others change.- ODRC administrator, London Correctional
Robert’s work with rescue dogs saved countless lives.– Director, PureBreed Rescue Organization
How You Can Help Justice for Robert J. Ruark
Your support is powerful. Here’s how you can help.
First, sign the petition. Then, volunteer or finally, share his story.