If you haven't seen the most recent hit on Netflix Waco, stop what you're doing and start watching. The series is based on the true story of David Koresh and the siege against The Branch Davidians by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
In 1993, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) attempted to initiate a routine raid in Waco, Texas, suspecting Koresh and The Branch Davidians of possessing illegal firearms. The ATF’s raid turned into a firefight. The Branch Davidians claim the ATF shot first and they were only defending themselves (i.e. a self-defense legal defense).
After the raid failed, the FBI was tasked with getting Koresh and The Branch Davidians out of their home. After 51 days of sieging the house, the FBI opted to use tear gas to force them out. The tear gas lit on fire and killed 76 Davidians who were trapped inside.
What the Netflix series does not tell you is the legal entanglement following the events in Waco, or the work that was put in by lawyers and law firms to make sure that the surviving members of The Branch Davidians were provided a proper defense.
Steven Rocket Rosen, of Rosen & Kovach, PLLC, defended 2 of the 11 Davidian survivors. Initially, Accused, Livingston Fagan, was represented by Steven Rocket Rosen. After witnessing Attorney Rosen’s devotion to his client and passionate advocacy in the courtroom, another Accused, Kevin Whitecliff, requested that he, too, be represented by Attorney Rosen. Both members of The Branch Davidians, Livingston Fagan, and Kevin Whitecliff, believed it was in their best interest to be represented by Steven Rocket Rosen.
In order to be as diligent as possible, Steven Rocket Rosen temporarily resided in Waco in order to be closer to his clients, the scene of the alleged crime, and the evidence. He believed in doing everything possible to make sure that his clients got the best possible legal defense.
Both Livingston Fagan and Kevin Whitecliff were charged with (and indicted for) aiding and abetting in the murder of federal officers as well as conspiracy to commit murder against federal officers.
Due to Steven Rocket Rosen's aggressive trial tactics, passionate demeanor, and unique style of advocating for his clients, Livingston Fagan and Kevin Whitecliff were found NOT GUILTY of conspiracy to murder federal officers and NOT GUILTY to aiding and abetting in the murder of federal officers. Fagan and Kevin were ACQUITTED of both charges. Instead, Livingston Fagan and Kevin Whitecliff were found guilty of a lesser offense (aiding and abetting in the voluntary manslaughter of federal officers).
Although this is one of the most high-profile cases in Texas history, the lawyers and staff at Rosen & Kovach, PLLC are dedicated to zealously representing all of their clients with the same attention and work ethic the provided to the two Branch Davidians. Rosen & Kovach, PLLC is prepared to handle the pressure and intricacies of any case. If you are in need of aggressive representation for a crime you have been charged with, contact Rosen & Kovach, PLLC for a free legal consultation.
Livingston Fagan (Above) Kevin Whitecliff (Above)
Attorney Steven Rocket Rosen pictured (second from the right) with the team of defense lawyers at The Alamo after The Branch Davidians jury trial