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Slain woman’s family alleges AA meetings point ‘financial, sexual, and violent predators’ to victims

But the nonprofit organization known for its 12-step program also attracts some who find it a convenient place to meet targets for a so-called “13th step”–exploiting troubled women sexually and financially, claims a California lawsuit. The suit was filed by the parents of a woman who was allegedly killed by a fellow participant, Eric Allen Earle. His ex-wife and others close to him said he repeatedly relapsed and became violent when drinking, and court records show he had been the subject of six restraining orders.

Hector and Jaroslava Mendez’s daughter, Karla Brada Mendez, 31, was unaware of Earle’s criminal background–or that he had been ordered by a court to attend AA meetings in the San Fernando Valley area–when she became involved with the 40-year-old sometime-electrician in 2011 after meeting him at AA, according to a lengthy Pro Publica article.

However, those who know Earle said he repeatedly used AA to find women who could provide him with housing, turning on the charm at the outset of their relationship, while continuing to drink. Then, as Karla reportedly found out too late, less positive aspects of his personality emerged. Continue reading →