On January 11, 2021, the disappearance of a prominent Florida lawyer, Melissa “Missy” Mckinley, sent shockwaves through the legal community. The 40-year-old mother of three was last seen leaving her law office in Fort Lauderdale on January 7th. Her car was found abandoned in a parking lot, and her cell phone and purse were missing. Four days later, police arrested a local doctor, Dr. Kelly M. Rothwell, and charged her with second-degree murder.
Dr. Rothwell, 35, was a former Navy officer and chiropractor who had been living with Mckinley for several months before her disappearance. According to police reports, the two women had been in a romantic relationship that had turned violent. Witnesses reported hearing loud arguments and seeing bruises on Mckinley’s arms in the weeks leading up to her disappearance.
Police obtained a search warrant for Dr. Rothwell’s home and found evidence that linked her to Mckinley’s disappearance. They also discovered that she had purchased cleaning supplies and a large suitcase just days before Mckinley went missing.
The case has drawn national attention and raised questions about domestic violence in same-sex relationships. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women and one in nine men experience severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime.
Mckinley’s family and colleagues have described her as a dedicated and compassionate lawyer who worked tirelessly to help her clients. She had recently been appointed to the board of directors of the Broward County Bar Association and was known for her advocacy work on behalf of children with disabilities.
Dr. Rothwell’s arrest has left many in shock, as she was well-respected in her community and had no prior criminal record. She is currently being held without bail at the Pinellas County Jail and has not yet entered a plea.
The case is still under investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Mckinley’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of her search and funeral expenses.
In conclusion, the disappearance and murder of Melissa “Missy” Mckinley has sent shockwaves through the legal community and raised important questions about domestic violence in same-sex relationships. The case serves as a reminder that no one is immune to violence and that we must continue to work towards ending domestic abuse in all forms.
