James Fortune Speaks Out

June 26, 2012.

Houston, TX

Yesterday, My Fox Houston reported that multiple Stellar Award winner James Fortune and his wife Cheryl were both being sued for alleged child abuse and Cheryl’s son and James’ step son more than a decade ago. Now 11 years later, the child’s father decides to sue the Fortune’s for well….a fortune, $5 million to be exact. See James Fortune’s statement below:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                   

“Several months ago I received a demand for payment from my stepson’s father for an injury to my stepson that occurred in 2001.  In the midst of negotiating a settlement regarding that injury, I was served with a lawsuit and now my wife and I are defending ourselves in civil court. At no time in my life was I convicted of felony injury to a child.  Following my step-son’s injury, there was a criminal investigation and all matters were resolved.  Since that time, my family and I, including my stepson, have maintained a continuous loving family environment.  Although his father has maintained custody, Cheryl and I have enjoyed continuous uninterrupted open visitations with my step-son since 2001.

We are shocked by this lawsuit but understand people are free to use the court system to pursue matters, whether or not the claims are baseless. We are confident through this process, the ultimate decision maker will render an outcome that is just and fair. We believe in our American justice system and know that once all facts are made transparent justice will prevail in our favor.

This lawsuit is a direct result of our desire to continue the uninterrupted love, commitment and financial support as well as to protect the ongoing well being while enhancing the current living conditions of our son. We have given our stepson who is currently in our care during his summer break continuous support and understand these allegations are a direct result of not only our increased profile and financial viability but an individuals desire to exploit such.

We intend to vehemently defend our right to protect our family while maintaining the character integrity and trusted core values the Fortune family has been blessed to exemplify.” Out of respect to the legal process and the continued positive environment we desire to maintain for my stepson this will be my only statement regarding this matter.”