big city
Judge finds K-9 business owner not guilty in heat-related deaths of dogs
NWI Times
December 5, 2025

Judge finds K-9 business owner not guilty in heat-related deaths of dogs

Defense attorneys Maryam Afshar-Stewart and J. Michael Woods of the Stracci Law Group secured a directed verdict of not guilty for Michael McHenry, owner of a K-9 training business.
Feds drop case after judge suppresses evidence police found 47 kilos of cocaine in car
NWI Times
October 30, 2024

Feds drop case after judge suppresses evidence police found 47 kilos of cocaine in car

A federal court judge granted the government's motion to dismiss drug charges against a man following an earlier ruling suppressing evidence that police found 47 kg of suspected cocaine in a car the man was driving.
No prison time for Indiana man who fatally shot 9-year-old daughter
13 WTHR
October 21, 2022

No prison time for Indiana man who fatally shot 9-year-old daughter

A northwestern Indiana man - Eric Hummel - who pleaded guilty to fatally shooting his 9-year-old daughter as he was talking to her two brothers about gun safety won't serve any prison time for her 2017 death.
20 UNDER 40: Maryam Afshar-Stewart
NWI Times
September 25, 2022

20 UNDER 40: Maryam Afshar-Stewart

As the daughter of immigrant parents, Maryam Afshar-Stewart learned early in life that success comes to those willing to put in the work.

Stracci Law Group - News and Insights

New Partners at Stracci Law Group
February 10, 2026
Stracci Law Group is pleased to announce that Attorney J. Michael Woods and Attorney Maryam Afshar-Stewart have been selected as partners at Stracci Law Group. Both attorneys have distinguished themselves through exceptional legal advocacy and a strong record of success in representing their clients. Their dedication and leadership reflect the high standards of excellence at our firm. Congratulations on this notable achievement — we look forward to their continued impact and leadership.
J. Michael Woods Elected LCBA Section Chair
February 1, 2026
Congratulations to Attorney J. Michael Woods on his election as Section Chair of the Lake County Bar Association Criminal Defense Section. This accomplishment reflects his professionalism and dedication to the practice of criminal defense law. We extend our best wishes for his continued success in this leadership role.