Combs Waterkotte, a Missouri criminal defense firm, successfully defended Grace Kipendo in a high-profile kidnapping and assault case, leading to a full dismissal of charges. Kipendo, one of three individuals accused of holding a woman captive at Mount of Olives Ministry church, faced allegations fueled by accusations of “cult-like” practices within the predominantly African immigrant congregation. Chris Combs, Kipendo’s attorney, argued that cultural misunderstandings and lack of evidence led to wrongful charges. Key arguments included the victim’s mental health crisis and unreliable identification based solely on a gray jacket. Combs also pointed out body cam footage supporting Kipendo’s innocence. After months of proceedings, charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence, freeing Kipendo from a difficult eight-month ordeal, including jail time and GPS monitoring.
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