News Follow-Up - May 26, 2009

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed By Sheri Coleman’s Family

The attorneys representing Sheri Coleman’s family, Enricho Mirabelli, left, and Jack Carey, this morning filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Christopher Coleman. Joining the attorneys at a press conference held at the Monroe County Courthouse Bandstand is Mario Weiss, Sheri Coleman’s brother.

A civil lawsuit claiming wrongful death was filed this morning against Christopher Coleman in connection with the May 5 death of his wife, Sheri, and sons Gavin and Garett. Attorneys Jack Carey of Belleville and Enrico Mirabelli arrived at the Monroe County Courthouse soon after the doors were unlocked at 8 a.m., and dropped off the legal documents at the Circuit Clerk’s office. Carey and Mirabelli are the attorneys representing the family of the three victims slain May 5 at their home in the Columbia Lakes subdivision on the north end of Columbia. The plaintiffs are were listed as Angela DeCicco, Sheri’s mother, and Mario Weiss, Sheri’s brother.

Their lawsuit lists Christopher Coleman as the sole defendant. In addition, Joyce Meyer Ministries and Ronald Coleman, Christopher’s father, were named respondents in discovery. Those two parties were listed in this capacity in order for the plaintiffs to obtain information, including documents, details of his employment, financial reports and insurance policies. There are no damages being sought from Joyce Meyer or Ron Coleman at this time, said Mirabelli, who is also a cousin to Sheri Coleman.

The amount of monetary compensation in the lawsuit states “in excess of $50,000,” but Carey said the actual damages sought would be determined at the time of the trial. In addition, the attorneys requested and received a temporary restraining order to entry into the Coleman home today. They also requested an inventory of items removed earlier this month by Chris Coleman’s brother and members of Grace Church Ministries in Chester where Ron Coleman is pastor. For yet unknown reason, Sheri Coleman signed over the deed to the home to Christopher last year, preventing Sheri’s family from entering the residence over the past weeks. 

Mirabelli said this lawsuit was filed to prevent Christopher Coleman the ability to profit from this incident now or in the future. He added, “To allow one penny of ill-gotten gain to be derived at the expense of Sheri, Garett and Gavin is not acceptable to those who dearly loved them.” Mirabelli specified that this financial profit would include income from any books or movies in addition to the sale of the home or other property.

Weiss and Mirabelli made it clear at the press conference the family did not file this lawsuit for any financial gain of their own. “Any funds obtained as a result of this lawsuit are to be used to erect a tribute in the City of Columbia in memory of Sheri, Gavin and Garett,” said Mirabelli, who added a memorial fund will be established.

Weiss, who traveled from Chicago to accompany the attorneys to the courthouse this morning, also addressed the media. He said he was a casual acquaintance of his brother-in-law, Christopher Coleman. The two had talked at family gatherings and even attended some White Sox baseball games together. Weiss said Sheri’s side of the family was very surprised Christopher had not communicated with them more following the tragedy. He confirmed Christopher only contacted their side of the family once since May 5. Weiss said he was appreciative of the support the family has received.

“I would like to thank everyone for their heartfelt support during this very difficult time for my family. I want to publically thank the Major Case Squad for their extraordinary efforts.”

A copy of the lawsuit will be delivered to Christopher Coleman’s attorney, William Margulis. They have 30 days to respond.

Christopher Coleman remains behind bars without bond at the Monroe County Jail charged with three counts of first degree murder. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 10 at the Monroe County Courthouse.