Kim Roberts, the second dancer involved in the Duke University Men’s Lacrosse team rape scandal, is taking steps to reverse the negative effects of the alleged incident.
Roberts, 31, recently sent an e-mail to 5W Public Relations to request their services.
The company has represented a variety of high profile rappers and celebrities, including its most recent client, rapper Lil’ Kim.
“Although I am no celebrity and just an average citizen, I’ve found myself in the center of one of the biggest stories in the country,” Roberts said in an email to 5W Public Relations. “I’m worried about letting this opportunity pass me by without making the best of it and was wondering if you had any advice as to how to spin this to my advantage. I am determined not to let any negative publicity about my life overtake me. I’m so confused as to who to talk to for relevant advice and I hope that you can return my e-mail. If you cannot help, do you know of any names and numbers I can call?”
While 5W Public Relations hasn’t officially honored Roberts’ request, the company’s CEO Ronn Torossian told AllHipHop.com that his firm is discussing the situation with Roberts.
“We understand now that we were contacted because of our experience in crisis communications with high profile individuals, particularly our representation of Lil’ Kim of whom this woman is a huge fan, Torossian told AllHipHop.com. “We have been in discussions with her and are currently evaluating our position on this matter.”
The request comes amidst rape allegations made against Duke lacrosse team members by another dancer, who performed with Roberts at a party in March.
On Monday (April 17), a grand jury indicted Reade Seligmann, 20, and Collin Finnerty, 19, on charges of rape and kidnapping.
Both men maintain their innocence, despite the charges made against them by their 27-year-old accuser.
As a result, the case has received national exposure as the public weighs in on the alleged crime and all parties involved.
Despite the exposure and prejudgments about the case, Torossian remained diplomatic as he explained why Roberts would contact his firm.
“Anyone who is in the firing line of the media should contact a PR firm – The media swarms are very intimidating and scary and people should always contact media experts before speaking with the media,” Torossian said.
