James Bensfield and Jonathan Kossak* were mentioned in an article describing their representation, in conjunction with the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project, of Michael McAlister. Mr. McAlister is seeking to be exonerated for a 1986 attempted rape in Richmond, Virginia, that has kept him in prison for almost 30 years. As described in the Times-Dispatch article, three retired police officers recently have come forward in support of Mr. McAlister's innocence. The three witnessed an individual they believe to be the real culprit approach a potential victim at the same location and around the same time as the incident for which Mr. McAlister was convicted. This new evidence comes on top of prior statements by the original lead prosecutor and detective that they also believe Mr. McAlister is innocent. Although Mr. McAlister has completed his criminal sentence, he remains imprisoned pending the resolution of proceedings that could result in his civil commitment as a violent sexual offender.

*Former Miller & Chevalier attorney