Detroit, Michigan – Attorneys Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller of Sommers Schwartz, P.C., and Megan Bonanni of Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers are collaborating in a groundbreaking legal battle that brings to light the urgent need for stronger protections against identity theft and data breaches. Their joint efforts gained national attention following a compelling opinion piece in USA Today, which addressed the alarming rise of sexual violence facilitated by technology.

The article discusses the case against Matthew Weiss, a former University of Michigan football coach accused of multiple counts of aggravated identity theft and unauthorized access. Through their representation of plaintiffs affected by Weiss’s alleged misconduct, Esser-Weidenfeller and Bonanni underscore the devastating consequences of compromised personal information. The duo seeks not only justice for their clients but also a broader societal recognition of the risks associated with digital vulnerabilities.

Esser-Weidenfeller’s extensive experience in advocating for victims of cyber sexual abuse complements Bonanni’s dedication to issues of institutional accountability and sexual assault. Bonanni, a partner at Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, is known for her meticulous and passionate approach to litigation, particularly in cases involving employment discrimination and civil rights violations. Together, they form a formidable alliance aiming to address the intersection of technology and personal privacy and dignity.

In their legal strategy, Esser-Weidenfeller and Bonanni highlight that this case is not just a garden variety data breach, but is a form of cyber sexual assault with Weiss stealing their clients’ intimate photos and videos. Victims often face emotional distress and a loss of autonomy that can linger long after the initial incident. The attorneys emphasize that their fight is not merely about seeking compensation, but also about reclaiming the narrative that has been forcibly taken from their clients and demanding institutional accountability and change. 

As part of their advocacy, the attorneys are calling for a reevaluation of existing laws, including the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and the Stored Communications Act, to better equip the legal system to handle the complexities of modern cyber offenses. They argue that a proactive approach is necessary to protect individuals from the increasing threat of identity theft and online exploitation.

With ongoing legal proceedings against Weiss and the pressing need for reform in data security practices, Esser-Weidenfeller and Bonanni are committed to amplifying the voices of victims. Their work not only champions individual rights but also strives to inspire a collective movement toward enhanced protections in the digital landscape. The partnership between these two accomplished attorneys serves as a critical reminder of the importance of accountability and vigilance in an era where technology often outpaces the law.