[State Repression News Disclaimer: The editor(s) of this site do not support nor in anyway condone authoritarian organizations masquerading as "revolutionary groups" such as the Revolutionary Community Party. However, just as we post news stories from the capitalist press, whom we do not support, we will post relevant and meaningful articles that may appear in the authoritarian "left" press.]
“This whole thing is so twisted. You’ve got the victims—Sean and the other two with him that night—being attacked like they’re the criminals, and the criminals—the cops who killed Sean—being treated like they’re the victims. But you know, I’ve been at other trials of police who’ve murdered Black people and here’s the thing. It plays out pretty much the same way every time.”
This comment, made to me by a Black woman as she and I waited for a 15-minute recess at the Sean Bell trial to end, reflected the feelings of others who have come to the Queens, N.Y., courthouse almost every day since the trial began on Febrary 25, to hear testimony in the case of the three NYPD detectives indicted in the killing on November 25, 2006, of 23-year-old Sean Bell and serious wounding of two of his friends, Joseph Guzman and Trent Benefield, in a lethal rain of 50 bullets, hours before Sean was to be married.
Source and full story
Monday, March 31, 2008
Statement from Assata Shakur
3/31/2008 6:29:06 AM by Assata Shakur
First of all, let me say thank you, to the many people who have helped me to celebrate my 60th birthday. Thank you for your beautiful birthday cards and for your warm and eloquent messages. Thank you for your activism, your radiant energy and most of all for your love. I am sincerely grateful for your support and for your commitment to social justice, truth and freedom.
It is somehow surprising for me to realize that I have lived on this planet for 60 years. I never imagined that I would live this long. Some of those years were very hard years, other years were happier, but I have never forgotten who I am or where I came from. For as long as I can remember, I was acutely aware of my oppression and of the oppression of my people.
Source and full story
First of all, let me say thank you, to the many people who have helped me to celebrate my 60th birthday. Thank you for your beautiful birthday cards and for your warm and eloquent messages. Thank you for your activism, your radiant energy and most of all for your love. I am sincerely grateful for your support and for your commitment to social justice, truth and freedom.
It is somehow surprising for me to realize that I have lived on this planet for 60 years. I never imagined that I would live this long. Some of those years were very hard years, other years were happier, but I have never forgotten who I am or where I came from. For as long as I can remember, I was acutely aware of my oppression and of the oppression of my people.
Source and full story
Fight State Repression: March in NYC on October 10th for Freedom for Political Prisoners and Prisoners of War
SAVE THE DATE!
FRIDAY OCTOBER 10th, 2008
March on the United Nations, New York City
Mobilization to Demand Freedom for Our Political Prisoners and Prisoners of War!
October 10th Coalition (list in formation):
Jericho Movement, Malcolm X Commemoration Committee, NYC Anarchist Black Cross Federation, NYC Free Mumia Coalition, NYC Leonard Peltier Support Group, ProLibertad, Resistance in Brooklyn, Safiya Bukhari/Nuh Washington Foundation
Source and full story
FRIDAY OCTOBER 10th, 2008
March on the United Nations, New York City
Mobilization to Demand Freedom for Our Political Prisoners and Prisoners of War!
October 10th Coalition (list in formation):
Jericho Movement, Malcolm X Commemoration Committee, NYC Anarchist Black Cross Federation, NYC Free Mumia Coalition, NYC Leonard Peltier Support Group, ProLibertad, Resistance in Brooklyn, Safiya Bukhari/Nuh Washington Foundation
Source and full story
Sunday, March 30, 2008
80 year old arrested for wearing anti war tee shirt at New York mall
An 80-year-old church deacon was removed from the Smith Haven Mall
Saturday in a wheelchair and arrested by police for refusing to
remove a T-shirt protesting the Iraq War.
Police said that Don Zirkel, of Bethpage, was disturbing shoppers at
the Lake Grove mall with his T-shirt, which had what they described
as "graphic anti-war images." Zirkel, a deacon at Our Lady of the
Miraculous Medal in Wyandanch, said his shirt had the death tolls of
American military personnel and Iraqis -- 4,000 and 1 million -- and
the words "Dead" and "Enough." The shirt also has three blotches
resembling blood splatters.
Police said in a release Saturday night that Zirkel was handing out
anti-war pamphlets to mallgoers and that mall security told him to
stop and turn his shirt inside out. Zirkel refused to turn his shirt
inside out and wouldn't leave, police said. Security placed him on
"civilian arrest" and called police. When police arrived, Zirkel
passively resisted attempts to bring him to a police car, the release
said.
Source and full story
Saturday in a wheelchair and arrested by police for refusing to
remove a T-shirt protesting the Iraq War.
Police said that Don Zirkel, of Bethpage, was disturbing shoppers at
the Lake Grove mall with his T-shirt, which had what they described
as "graphic anti-war images." Zirkel, a deacon at Our Lady of the
Miraculous Medal in Wyandanch, said his shirt had the death tolls of
American military personnel and Iraqis -- 4,000 and 1 million -- and
the words "Dead" and "Enough." The shirt also has three blotches
resembling blood splatters.
Police said in a release Saturday night that Zirkel was handing out
anti-war pamphlets to mallgoers and that mall security told him to
stop and turn his shirt inside out. Zirkel refused to turn his shirt
inside out and wouldn't leave, police said. Security placed him on
"civilian arrest" and called police. When police arrived, Zirkel
passively resisted attempts to bring him to a police car, the release
said.
Source and full story
Canada: One dead after prison uprising
A federal prison inmate is dead and another is in hospital following a violent uprising Saturday night in Agassiz, B.C.
Mountain Institution, a medium security facility, is still under lockdown after a number of inmates at the prison began breaking windows in the gymnasium just before 10 p.m. local time.
Staff at the facility were threatened and other inmates were attacked, according to a news release put out by the Correctional Service of Canada.
Source and full story
Mountain Institution, a medium security facility, is still under lockdown after a number of inmates at the prison began breaking windows in the gymnasium just before 10 p.m. local time.
Staff at the facility were threatened and other inmates were attacked, according to a news release put out by the Correctional Service of Canada.
Source and full story
Statement from Pam Africa regarding court decision and April 19 Philly Demonstration
Last week’s court decision was not a victory. While we obviously prefer to have Mumia alive, instead of executed, life in prison without parole is an unacceptable sentence for an innocent man that was convicted with a blatantly unfair trial. Further, there is still no guarantee that he will not be executed. Also, even if the overturning of the death penalty is eventually finalized, there is no guarantee that he will be moved into the general prison population, because the government has always found ways to make “exceptions” for political prisoners like Mumia.
Source and full story
Source and full story
U.S. Official: 1 in 10 Prisoners Eligible for Deportation
At least 304,000 immigrant criminals eligible for deportation are behind bars nationwide, a top federal immigration official said Thursday.
That is the first official estimate of the total number of such convicts in federal, state and local prisons and jails.
The head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Julie L. Myers, said the annual number of deportable immigrant inmates was expected to vary from 300,000 to 455,000, or 10 percent of the overall inmate population, for the next few years.
Source and full story
That is the first official estimate of the total number of such convicts in federal, state and local prisons and jails.
The head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Julie L. Myers, said the annual number of deportable immigrant inmates was expected to vary from 300,000 to 455,000, or 10 percent of the overall inmate population, for the next few years.
Source and full story
Eric McDavid's Sentencing Hearing postponed again
From the Sacramento Prisoner Support Committee:
Please note that sentencing has been rescheduled for March 10th at 9:00am. We sincerely hope that this doesn't interfere with anyone's plans to make it out and we thank you for being understanding. We are hopeful that this is the last time Eric's sentencing will be pushed back. We will continue to update this site with the most current information we have regarding the date of his sentencing.
Source and previous updates
Please note that sentencing has been rescheduled for March 10th at 9:00am. We sincerely hope that this doesn't interfere with anyone's plans to make it out and we thank you for being understanding. We are hopeful that this is the last time Eric's sentencing will be pushed back. We will continue to update this site with the most current information we have regarding the date of his sentencing.
Source and previous updates
Friday, March 28, 2008
Texas: Prison rebellion leaves one dead
A riot at the Federal Correctional Institute near Three Rivers has left one inmate dead and more than a dozen others in area hospitals. The facility is about eight miles west of Three Rivers and right across the road from the Choke Canyon Reservoir.
The federal prison is also known as "FCI Three Rivers" and is both a medium and minimum security facility. The main part of the complex is made up of the medium security facility. The population is male inmates only and there are just over 1,100 inmates currently housed there. FCI Three Rivers is also the site of what is called a minimum security satellite camp, which is also comprised of male inmates only and currently houses 345 men.
Source and full story
The federal prison is also known as "FCI Three Rivers" and is both a medium and minimum security facility. The main part of the complex is made up of the medium security facility. The population is male inmates only and there are just over 1,100 inmates currently housed there. FCI Three Rivers is also the site of what is called a minimum security satellite camp, which is also comprised of male inmates only and currently houses 345 men.
Source and full story
Wisconsin: 14 Chippewa released on bond after tribal center takeover
Fourteen members of the Lac du Flambeau Chippewa band are free on signature bond after their trespassing arrest at the tribal center during a protest.
The tribal members locked themselves inside the center and stayed there about 14 hours before the protest ended peacefully Wednesday afternoon. Authorities say federal investigators agreed to look into the protesters' allegations of corruption among tribal leaders.
The courtroom was packed for Friday's bond hearing in Vilas County Circuit Court.
Court Commissioner Calvin Burton released each defendant on $250 signature bond.
Source and full story
The tribal members locked themselves inside the center and stayed there about 14 hours before the protest ended peacefully Wednesday afternoon. Authorities say federal investigators agreed to look into the protesters' allegations of corruption among tribal leaders.
The courtroom was packed for Friday's bond hearing in Vilas County Circuit Court.
Court Commissioner Calvin Burton released each defendant on $250 signature bond.
Source and full story
Minneapolis: 16 arrested during anti-war protest
Minneapolis police arrested 16 war protestors Thursday afternoon at a National Guard recruiting station in Dinkytown.
Earlier, more than 200 students rallied on the University of Minnesota campus to mark the five-year anniversary of the start of the Iraq war.
Authorities say some of the students blocked the entrance to the recruiting station near the corner of Washington Avenue and Oak Street.
Source and full story
Earlier, more than 200 students rallied on the University of Minnesota campus to mark the five-year anniversary of the start of the Iraq war.
Authorities say some of the students blocked the entrance to the recruiting station near the corner of Washington Avenue and Oak Street.
Source and full story
NYC: Tape indicates police threatened to kill protesters at Tibet rally
Protesters at the Chinese Consulate on the Upper East side scuffled with the police earlier this month, and some officers reacted by apparently striking out with their clubs. One police officer shouted at the protesters, “I’ll Kill you! I fucking kill you!”
The officers were caught on grainy, shaky video (right), which was posted to Infowars.net on Tuesday. [State Repression News does not condone the right wing, anti-immigrant infowars.net site nor those that run the site.]
But police officials said nobody was beaten. “Contrary to what the narrator is saying [on the video], nobody is being beaten by the police,” a police spokesman told the Daily News. “What is visible, though the video is poor quality, is people resisting arrest.”
Source and full story
The officers were caught on grainy, shaky video (right), which was posted to Infowars.net on Tuesday. [State Repression News does not condone the right wing, anti-immigrant infowars.net site nor those that run the site.]
But police officials said nobody was beaten. “Contrary to what the narrator is saying [on the video], nobody is being beaten by the police,” a police spokesman told the Daily News. “What is visible, though the video is poor quality, is people resisting arrest.”
Source and full story
Milwaukee: Hmong Community to protest brutal arrest
The American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin said this afternoon it will have observers at Saturday's planned march by members of the Hmong community to protest an arrest they claim involved police brutality.
In a news release, ACLU executive director Chris Ahmuty said that the organization believes some of the Police Chief Edward Flynn's comments concerning the protest and the Hmong community were "inappropriate" and premature.
Flynn said Thursday that Police Officer Kerry Parker acted appropriately the night of Feb. 17 when he used force to arrest Koua Moua, 39, in the 6300 block of W. Florist Ave. because Parker feared for his safety.
Source and full story
In a news release, ACLU executive director Chris Ahmuty said that the organization believes some of the Police Chief Edward Flynn's comments concerning the protest and the Hmong community were "inappropriate" and premature.
Flynn said Thursday that Police Officer Kerry Parker acted appropriately the night of Feb. 17 when he used force to arrest Koua Moua, 39, in the 6300 block of W. Florist Ave. because Parker feared for his safety.
Source and full story
Midwest Green Scare: Marie Mason released/preparing for trial
From Twin Cities Eco-Prisoner Support Committee:
We are happy to report that despite a mind numbing amount of red tape and drama from the probation dept. and the associated electronic tether, Marie was released from jail Tuesday. She is under house arrest at a relative's house and only able to go outside with permission 2 hours a week. She also needs special permission to see her lawyer because his office falls outside the western district. There is a tentative trial-date set for May 27, 2008, but we have been informed by her attorney that this date will almost certainly be pushed back as there has not been adequate time to prepare the case.
Source and full story
We are happy to report that despite a mind numbing amount of red tape and drama from the probation dept. and the associated electronic tether, Marie was released from jail Tuesday. She is under house arrest at a relative's house and only able to go outside with permission 2 hours a week. She also needs special permission to see her lawyer because his office falls outside the western district. There is a tentative trial-date set for May 27, 2008, but we have been informed by her attorney that this date will almost certainly be pushed back as there has not been adequate time to prepare the case.
Source and full story
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Update for Three Anarchists Arrested in SF, Ca March 19th at Anti-War Demo
We are happy to say that Kenneth is no longer being charged with anything. They could decide to charge him within a few weeks, but as of right now he is not being charged with anything. As for Mitch and Bryan, their pre-trial hearing will be held on April 7th at 9:00 am, 850 Bryant in Department 13. We know it's early, much earlier than we would like to be getting up at, but if any one would like to come to show solidarity for two anarchists who were wrongfully arrested please come and support. And again we would like to thank all of those who have volunteered time working on their case, those called the jail to ask about those taken by the police (yes you raging grannies, your awesome), and those who donated money to help with their legal defense.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Rod Coronado sentenced
An activist once tied to the radical Earth Liberation Front was sentenced Thursday to a year and a day in federal prison for showing people how to make a fire bomb.
Rodney Coronado, 41, pleaded guilty on Dec. 14 to a rarely used federal law that makes it a crime to teach how to make a destructive device that could be used to commit arson. A jury deadlocked in his trial three months earlier.
The defendant could have faced up to 20 years behind bars if convicted.
Source and full story
Rodney Coronado, 41, pleaded guilty on Dec. 14 to a rarely used federal law that makes it a crime to teach how to make a destructive device that could be used to commit arson. A jury deadlocked in his trial three months earlier.
The defendant could have faced up to 20 years behind bars if convicted.
Source and full story
Feds won't retry Briana Waters
Federal prosecutors have agreed not to retry convicted University of Washington arsonist Briana Waters on a charge that could have sent her to prison for an automatic 30 years.
Waters was convicted this month on two counts of arson stemming from an ecoterror fire that destroyed the University of Washington's Center for Urban Horticulture in 2001. But the jury deadlocked on three other counts, including the big one, using a destructive device during a crime of violence. That carried a mandatory minimum of 30 years in prison.
In an agreement signed Thursday, the U.S. attorney's office in Seattle said it won't hold a new trial on the deadlocked counts, and moved to dismiss those charges.
In exchange, Waters agreed that if a federal appeals court overturns her conviction, the government can refile the charges _ even if the statute of limitations has run.
Source and full story
Waters was convicted this month on two counts of arson stemming from an ecoterror fire that destroyed the University of Washington's Center for Urban Horticulture in 2001. But the jury deadlocked on three other counts, including the big one, using a destructive device during a crime of violence. That carried a mandatory minimum of 30 years in prison.
In an agreement signed Thursday, the U.S. attorney's office in Seattle said it won't hold a new trial on the deadlocked counts, and moved to dismiss those charges.
In exchange, Waters agreed that if a federal appeals court overturns her conviction, the government can refile the charges _ even if the statute of limitations has run.
Source and full story
New Orleans: Five public housing protesters convicted
A Municipal Court judge Wednesday convicted five protesters and acquitted two others arrested Dec. 20 in the City Council chamber before the council voted to demolish New Orleans' four largest public housing developments.The seven defendants on trial before Judge Sean Early were among 10 people handcuffed after they loudly objected to the refusal by Civil Sheriff's Office deputies to let additional spectators into the Dec. 20 meeting, though seats were available.
That was followed by a melee during which at least two protesters were Tasered by police, who also dispersed pepper spray into the throng outside City Hall.
Right off the bat in the five-hour trial, Early dismissed the case against Robin Morris, who was charged with violating a city ordinance that makes it illegal to wear a mask on any day that isn't Mardi Gras. Loyola University Law Clinic attorney Judson Mitchell, who represented all seven defendants, said that Morris had raised his sweatshirt to avoid inhaling pepper gas.
Source and full story
That was followed by a melee during which at least two protesters were Tasered by police, who also dispersed pepper spray into the throng outside City Hall.
Right off the bat in the five-hour trial, Early dismissed the case against Robin Morris, who was charged with violating a city ordinance that makes it illegal to wear a mask on any day that isn't Mardi Gras. Loyola University Law Clinic attorney Judson Mitchell, who represented all seven defendants, said that Morris had raised his sweatshirt to avoid inhaling pepper gas.
Source and full story
Toledo, Ohio: Michael Sykes may get plea deal
A plea bargain could be in the works to resolve criminal charges against the Lambertville teenager accused of setting fires that caused more than $500,000 damage to unfinished homes in Bedford Township, his attorney said in court yesterday.
Michael W. Sykes, 17, of 7472 Canterbury Drive, appeared in Monroe County District Court for a pretrial hearing on arson and home invasion charges stemming from a March 14 fire that destroyed a house being built on Brentridge Lane.
At the request of the youth's attorney, Judge Mark Braunlich waived a preliminary exam scheduled for Monday.
Source and full story
Michael W. Sykes, 17, of 7472 Canterbury Drive, appeared in Monroe County District Court for a pretrial hearing on arson and home invasion charges stemming from a March 14 fire that destroyed a house being built on Brentridge Lane.
At the request of the youth's attorney, Judge Mark Braunlich waived a preliminary exam scheduled for Monday.
Source and full story
Wisconsin: Police poised to break up Native protest
A group of people have locked themselves into a tribal center. Several law enforcement agencies are involved in the standoff. This is happening on the Indian reservation in Lac du Flambeau, just outside a popular summer vacation destination of Minoqua. The standoff began around 2:00 a.m. Wednesday. It is believed that those involved in the standoff are from within the tribe and are not in leadership positions.
They have reportedly locked themselves in the tribal center because they believe tribal leadership has embezzled $80,000 and they would like that investigated. Jeff Angileri from the NBC affiliate in Rhinelander appeared on Live at 12:30 via a phone interview to discuss the situation. Angileri talked to two people claiming to be in the building who say they are waiting for the Bureau of Indian Affairs to act as a mediator between the people inside the building and the tribe leadership. Those inside the building are calling themselves the golden eagles, and say they would like to see nine government reforms for the tribe, including financial reforms, and they are calling for a war against corruption. They say they would also like to see an audit of the tribe’s finances. There are reportedly women, children, elders and warriors, or male members of the tribe inside the building.
Source and full story
They have reportedly locked themselves in the tribal center because they believe tribal leadership has embezzled $80,000 and they would like that investigated. Jeff Angileri from the NBC affiliate in Rhinelander appeared on Live at 12:30 via a phone interview to discuss the situation. Angileri talked to two people claiming to be in the building who say they are waiting for the Bureau of Indian Affairs to act as a mediator between the people inside the building and the tribe leadership. Those inside the building are calling themselves the golden eagles, and say they would like to see nine government reforms for the tribe, including financial reforms, and they are calling for a war against corruption. They say they would also like to see an audit of the tribe’s finances. There are reportedly women, children, elders and warriors, or male members of the tribe inside the building.
Source and full story
Canada: Police planned violent attack on Native blockade
Police were poised to crack down on native protest, documents show; OPP were prepared to move in, even on children, protester says.
Teams of heavily armed police were poised to crack down on native demonstrators who erected blockades during a day of protest in eastern Ontario in June, CBC News has learned.
CBC's The Current obtained a series of notes handwritten by Ontario Provincial Police officers that describe how Commissioner Julian Fantino planned a morning raid of the blockades set up overnight on June 28 on Highway 401, Highway 2 and a CN Rail line in the Kingston area.
Source and full story
Teams of heavily armed police were poised to crack down on native demonstrators who erected blockades during a day of protest in eastern Ontario in June, CBC News has learned.
CBC's The Current obtained a series of notes handwritten by Ontario Provincial Police officers that describe how Commissioner Julian Fantino planned a morning raid of the blockades set up overnight on June 28 on Highway 401, Highway 2 and a CN Rail line in the Kingston area.
Source and full story
Holy Name 6: As of Wednesday, all are out of jail!
As of 5:00 pm this evening, bond has been posted for Ephran, Mercedes, and Regan—the remaining three people arrested Sunday morning.
Around 2 pm this afternoon, bond was posted for Ephran Ramirez. Two hours later, supporters were on their way to the Cook County Courthouse to post for the remaining two defendants, Mercedes Phinaih and Regan Maher. All three will be released later this evening. Everyone's delighted that we will be seeing them soon.
Source and full story
Around 2 pm this afternoon, bond was posted for Ephran Ramirez. Two hours later, supporters were on their way to the Cook County Courthouse to post for the remaining two defendants, Mercedes Phinaih and Regan Maher. All three will be released later this evening. Everyone's delighted that we will be seeing them soon.
Source and full story
Mumia's appeal for new trial denied; Court orders new sentencing hearing
A federal appeals court on Thursday said former Black Panther Mumia Abu-Jamal cannot be executed for murdering a Philadelphia police officer without a new penalty hearing.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Abu-Jamal's conviction should stand, but that he should get a new sentencing hearing because of flawed jury instructions. If prosecutors don't want to give him a new death penalty hearing, Abu-Jamal would be sentenced automatically to life in prison.
Source and full story
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Abu-Jamal's conviction should stand, but that he should get a new sentencing hearing because of flawed jury instructions. If prosecutors don't want to give him a new death penalty hearing, Abu-Jamal would be sentenced automatically to life in prison.
Source and full story
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Angola 3: Herman and Albert removed from solitary confinement after 3 decades!
Two men held in solitary confinement in Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola since the 1970s were moved into a maximum-security dormitory with other inmates Monday, Assistant Warden Angie Norwood said today.
Herman Wallace and Albert Woodfox, part of a group known as the Angola 3, have sued the state, claiming they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment for the years they spent in isolation. The two were convicted of killing a prison guard, though their attorneys argue they didn’t commit the crime.
Their move out of solitary confinement came as lawyers for the prisoners and the state are negotiating a settlement in the lawsuit, which is pending in federal court in Baton Rouge.
Source and full story
Herman Wallace and Albert Woodfox, part of a group known as the Angola 3, have sued the state, claiming they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment for the years they spent in isolation. The two were convicted of killing a prison guard, though their attorneys argue they didn’t commit the crime.
Their move out of solitary confinement came as lawyers for the prisoners and the state are negotiating a settlement in the lawsuit, which is pending in federal court in Baton Rouge.
Source and full story
Mumia Abu Jamal Legal Update
This is an update on the case of my client, Mumia Abu-Jamal, who has been on Pennsylvania’s death row for over a quarter of a century.
We continue to await the decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Pennsylvania. I am in contact with the court, and will alert everyone immediately upon the issuance of a ruling. Oral argument was on May 17, 2007, thus people ask why the court is taking so long. This is a highly complex case involving issues of great constitutional significance and a voluminous amount of material. In three decades of successfully defending people in numerous murder cases involving the death penalty, I have not seen one more complicated.
It is impossible to know how the federal court will rule, but the briefing and arguments could not have gone better even though there have been problems due to mistakes by prior counsel. If the federal court follows the mandate of the U.S. Constitution, the decision should be favorable.
However, Mumia remains in jeopardy because courts are so unpredictable.
Robert Bryan
San Francisco CA
Robert Bryan is lead counsel for Mumia Abu-Jamal.
We continue to await the decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Pennsylvania. I am in contact with the court, and will alert everyone immediately upon the issuance of a ruling. Oral argument was on May 17, 2007, thus people ask why the court is taking so long. This is a highly complex case involving issues of great constitutional significance and a voluminous amount of material. In three decades of successfully defending people in numerous murder cases involving the death penalty, I have not seen one more complicated.
It is impossible to know how the federal court will rule, but the briefing and arguments could not have gone better even though there have been problems due to mistakes by prior counsel. If the federal court follows the mandate of the U.S. Constitution, the decision should be favorable.
However, Mumia remains in jeopardy because courts are so unpredictable.
Robert Bryan
San Francisco CA
Robert Bryan is lead counsel for Mumia Abu-Jamal.
New Jersey: Activist fights for jail term closer to home
Human rights activist Edwin Lewinson demanded to be sent to prison following his arrest last year during a protest against a controversial school that trains Latin American troops at Fort Benning, Ga.
But the blind 78-year-old retired professor is not happy to serve his three-month sentence at the Elkton Federal Correctional Institution, which is 413 miles from his home in Newark.
"It's going to make it difficult for my friends to come visit me," Lewinson said Wednesday during a small rally in his honor in front of the Peter Rodino Federal Building in Newark.
Source and full story
But the blind 78-year-old retired professor is not happy to serve his three-month sentence at the Elkton Federal Correctional Institution, which is 413 miles from his home in Newark.
"It's going to make it difficult for my friends to come visit me," Lewinson said Wednesday during a small rally in his honor in front of the Peter Rodino Federal Building in Newark.
Source and full story
Olympia SDSer Arrested
On Tuesday, March 18, local activist Forrest Student and member of SDS at The Evergreen State College in Olympia was targeted by Officer Perez of the Evergreen Police. Perez has a history of harassing and abusing students and other people on campus. When Perez approached him and started questioning him, the person said he had the right to have an attorney present and because of that, Perez arrested him for obstruction. Forrest continued in his refusal, demanding an attorney while in jail and at his arraignment. In response his charges were increased to misdemeanor criminal mischief. The judge refused to set bail and Forrest is still sitting in jail.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Jailed Palestinian Professor Sami Al-Arian on protracted hunger strike
Jailed Palestinian Professor Sami Al-Arian entered the nineteenth day of a hunger strike on March 21 to protest what he calls continued government harassment. He was brought before a third grand jury Thursday, but did not testify.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Statement from an Anarchist arrested during San Francisco anti-war protests
To All Concerned,
On March 19th, I was attacked and arrested by the SFPD on Market and Montgomery. I would like to give you all a very brief run down of what happened and what I am facing.
I was standing on Market Street when I saw three pigs heading towards me and my friends. I was several feet away from my friends when the pigs started running towards them. When I saw them attack my friend (who was also arrested), my instincts moved me to try and assist him. Before I knew it, I was myself being attacked by the pigs. I was quickly overwhelmed and taken to the ground.
After being picked up, Officer Wolf immediately accused me of throwing a punch at another pig. He said this occured earlier, when the SFPD encircled the die-in and began randomly hitting people. I know and can prove that I was nowhere near the police line when the encirclement happened. Despite this, Officer Wolf continued to drone on about how I punched a cop and was going to state prison. When I in turn accused him of being the liar that he is, he denied it. But as I kept yelling about how he was lying, Wolf finally told his superior officer (who I could not see) that he was mistaken in his assertion and that it was someone else who had thrown the punch.
Source and full story
On March 19th, I was attacked and arrested by the SFPD on Market and Montgomery. I would like to give you all a very brief run down of what happened and what I am facing.
I was standing on Market Street when I saw three pigs heading towards me and my friends. I was several feet away from my friends when the pigs started running towards them. When I saw them attack my friend (who was also arrested), my instincts moved me to try and assist him. Before I knew it, I was myself being attacked by the pigs. I was quickly overwhelmed and taken to the ground.
After being picked up, Officer Wolf immediately accused me of throwing a punch at another pig. He said this occured earlier, when the SFPD encircled the die-in and began randomly hitting people. I know and can prove that I was nowhere near the police line when the encirclement happened. Despite this, Officer Wolf continued to drone on about how I punched a cop and was going to state prison. When I in turn accused him of being the liar that he is, he denied it. But as I kept yelling about how he was lying, Wolf finally told his superior officer (who I could not see) that he was mistaken in his assertion and that it was someone else who had thrown the punch.
Source and full story
Marie Mason/Midwest Green Scare Update
From Twin Cities Eco-Prisoner Support Committee:
Marie's arraignment was [March 21st]. She was granted release on a $75,000
unsecured bond pending pre-trial services setting up an electronic tether.
She is restricted to the Western District of Michigan and may have no
contact with anyone whom, to her knowledge, is or ever was involved in
criminal activity related to environmental causes. She will also face
other travel restrictions. We realize this requires some explanation.
As to the “unsecured bond”, this means that no money is required up front
but that Marie agrees to appear in court or else face the penalty of
paying $75,000. The electronic tether is as yet unclear. The full
implications of the other travel restrictions are as yet unclear other
than the fact that she will need approval of pre-trial services to travel
anywhere outside of the Western District of Michigan. Right now Marie is
being held until the electronic tether is established and then she will be
released. She has a place to stay in Western Michigan already.
Source and full story
Marie's arraignment was [March 21st]. She was granted release on a $75,000
unsecured bond pending pre-trial services setting up an electronic tether.
She is restricted to the Western District of Michigan and may have no
contact with anyone whom, to her knowledge, is or ever was involved in
criminal activity related to environmental causes. She will also face
other travel restrictions. We realize this requires some explanation.
As to the “unsecured bond”, this means that no money is required up front
but that Marie agrees to appear in court or else face the penalty of
paying $75,000. The electronic tether is as yet unclear. The full
implications of the other travel restrictions are as yet unclear other
than the fact that she will need approval of pre-trial services to travel
anywhere outside of the Western District of Michigan. Right now Marie is
being held until the electronic tether is established and then she will be
released. She has a place to stay in Western Michigan already.
Source and full story
Monday, March 24, 2008
Support underway for "Holy Name 6", $16,000 needed for bail
The bond for Ephran, Regan, Mercedes, Ryne, and Angela is set at $25,000 each. Donte's bond is set at $35,000. In order to be bailed out, each arrestee needs to post 10% of their bond. All told, we need to raise $16,000.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Up to $35,000 bail each set for Easter anti-war protesters
The six Iraq war protesters charged with defacing church property as they disrupted Cardinal Francis George's Easter homily were held Monday in lieu of up to $35,000.
The demonstrators, who called themselves Catholic Schoolgirls Against the War, despite having both male and female protesters, squirted fake blood on themselves and nearby worshipers as security guards tried to usher them from the parish's auditorium, where mass is being said during repairs on the downtown Chicago cathedral.
Each protester faces felony charges because the damaged property belonged to a religious entity and the church will have to spend $3,000 to replace chairs and carpeting, prosecutors said. A $400 cleaning failed to remove stains left by the fake blood.
All except Smith received $25,000 bail. Smith, who spent time in prison for illegally entering a U.S. military installation, had his bond set at $35,000, prosectors said.
Source and full story
The demonstrators, who called themselves Catholic Schoolgirls Against the War, despite having both male and female protesters, squirted fake blood on themselves and nearby worshipers as security guards tried to usher them from the parish's auditorium, where mass is being said during repairs on the downtown Chicago cathedral.
Each protester faces felony charges because the damaged property belonged to a religious entity and the church will have to spend $3,000 to replace chairs and carpeting, prosecutors said. A $400 cleaning failed to remove stains left by the fake blood.
All except Smith received $25,000 bail. Smith, who spent time in prison for illegally entering a U.S. military installation, had his bond set at $35,000, prosectors said.
Source and full story
Easter Mass arrestee denied medical attention
Ryane J. Ziemba, one of the activists involved in today's protest at Easter Mass is currently being denied his medication.
Despite multiple requests for his inhaler Chicago Police at the 18th District (near Division and Halsted) are refusing to give Ryane Ziemba the medication. Ryane's friends are asking that people call the station at 312-742-5870. We also are asking that people maintain a physical presence in front of the jail until the Police allow Ryane to use his medication. When on the phone with Ryane, Chicago Police were heard verbally harassing those arrested.
Source and full story
Despite multiple requests for his inhaler Chicago Police at the 18th District (near Division and Halsted) are refusing to give Ryane Ziemba the medication. Ryane's friends are asking that people call the station at 312-742-5870. We also are asking that people maintain a physical presence in front of the jail until the Police allow Ryane to use his medication. When on the phone with Ryane, Chicago Police were heard verbally harassing those arrested.
Source and full story
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Update: Chicago Easter anti-war arrestees charged with felonies
Six anti-war protesters have been charged Sunday afternoon following an Easter service disruption at Holy Name Cathedral in the Loop Sunday morning.
Three men and three women were arrested at the Holy Name Cathedral at 735 N. State St. about 11:40 a.m., according to police News Affairs Officer Marcel Bright.
The men arrested were 21-year-old Donte D. Smith, 22-year-old Ephran Ramirez, Jr., and 25-year-old Ryane J. Ziemba, according to police News Affairs.
The women arrested were 18-year-old Mercedes Phinaih, 25-year-old Regan Maher and 20-year-old Angela Haban.
All six protesters have been charged with two counts of felony criminal damage to property and two counts of simple battery.
Source and full story
Three men and three women were arrested at the Holy Name Cathedral at 735 N. State St. about 11:40 a.m., according to police News Affairs Officer Marcel Bright.
The men arrested were 21-year-old Donte D. Smith, 22-year-old Ephran Ramirez, Jr., and 25-year-old Ryane J. Ziemba, according to police News Affairs.
The women arrested were 18-year-old Mercedes Phinaih, 25-year-old Regan Maher and 20-year-old Angela Haban.
All six protesters have been charged with two counts of felony criminal damage to property and two counts of simple battery.
Source and full story
Chicago: 6 arrested for anti-war protest during Easter Mass
Six anti-war protestors were arrested during Easter services at Holy Name Cathedral in the Loop Sunday morning.
Four men and two women were arrested at the Holy Name Cathedral at 735 N. State St. about 11:40 a.m., according to police News Affairs Officer Marcel Bright.
Due to repairs being made in the cathedral, services were held in the cathedral auditorium.
They were arrested during Easter services presided by Cardinal Francis George, which began at 11 a.m.
The anti-war group “Catholic Schoolgirls Against The War” has claimed responsibility for the protest.
Source and full story
Four men and two women were arrested at the Holy Name Cathedral at 735 N. State St. about 11:40 a.m., according to police News Affairs Officer Marcel Bright.
Due to repairs being made in the cathedral, services were held in the cathedral auditorium.
They were arrested during Easter services presided by Cardinal Francis George, which began at 11 a.m.
The anti-war group “Catholic Schoolgirls Against The War” has claimed responsibility for the protest.
Source and full story
Eight Activists Arrested in New York City War Profiteer Blockade
On Wednesday, March 19, at approximately 8:30 am, over 30 young activists from the Anti-Profiteering Spirit Squad staged a massive nonviolent blockade in New York City at the international headquarters of the sixth largest war profiteer and defense contractor in the United States, L-3 Communications Corporation, at 3rd Ave. and 40th St.
Eight activists chained themselves to a set of revolving doors and a single side-entrance and were arrested after almost an hour of successfully barring entrance into the building. This protest was met by a large and vocal contingent of supporters and passersby, as well as a formidable police presence. One protestor's shoulder was dislocated when officers forcibly loaded him into a police van.
Source and full story
Eight activists chained themselves to a set of revolving doors and a single side-entrance and were arrested after almost an hour of successfully barring entrance into the building. This protest was met by a large and vocal contingent of supporters and passersby, as well as a formidable police presence. One protestor's shoulder was dislocated when officers forcibly loaded him into a police van.
Source and full story
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Sara Jane Olson re-imprisoned; release was based on "technical error"
A former member of the radical 1970s group Symbionese Liberation Army is back in custody after a clerical error miscalculated her prison release date, a California Department of Corrections spokesman said Saturday.
Sara Jane Olson was freed Monday.
But her earliest release date is now March 17, 2009, Chief Deputy Secretary Scott Kernan said, calling the error "an aberration."
"Our department immediately rearrested her, and she will serve her full sentence," Kernan said.
He described Olson as cooperative and said the arrest took place "without incident."
She will serve the year at the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, California.
"The department is sensitive to the impact such an error has had on all involved in this case and sincerely regrets the mistake," Kernan said.
Source and full story
Sara Jane Olson was freed Monday.
But her earliest release date is now March 17, 2009, Chief Deputy Secretary Scott Kernan said, calling the error "an aberration."
"Our department immediately rearrested her, and she will serve her full sentence," Kernan said.
He described Olson as cooperative and said the arrest took place "without incident."
She will serve the year at the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, California.
"The department is sensitive to the impact such an error has had on all involved in this case and sincerely regrets the mistake," Kernan said.
Source and full story
Friday's legal update about Bay Area anti-war arrestees
* Kurt Therklsen has been released from jail and his case has been discharged (meaning dropped, but theoretically could be re-filed within 15 days, which would be April 7th).
* Kenneth Pack, who was bailed out yesterday, has also been discharged (also depending on the charges not being re-charged by April 7th).
*Brian Reggins and Mitch Inclan were arraigned this morning and their charges were reduced to misdemeanors. They were NOT released on their own recognizance but we think Mitch may be being bailed out. Both have lawyers and have a pre-trial court date April 1 and trial date, April 11 or shortly after that. Brian will stay in jail until then unless someone bails him out. His bail was reduced to $15,000. His support people are organizing his support and raising money to post his bond. They will be passing a hat tonight at the Anarchist Bookfair Cafe. If you would like to donate money or help support the release of these folks (and their continued legal support) please contact the DASW Legal Working Group on teh NLG legal hotline at 285-1011. For support for Brian Reggins and Mitch Inclin, contact Faun at (925) 437-4682 or pitchpipeinfo-at-riseup.net
* Mitchell Anderson was released yesterday and also has a lawyer and a court date April 4.
Source and full story
* Kenneth Pack, who was bailed out yesterday, has also been discharged (also depending on the charges not being re-charged by April 7th).
*Brian Reggins and Mitch Inclan were arraigned this morning and their charges were reduced to misdemeanors. They were NOT released on their own recognizance but we think Mitch may be being bailed out. Both have lawyers and have a pre-trial court date April 1 and trial date, April 11 or shortly after that. Brian will stay in jail until then unless someone bails him out. His bail was reduced to $15,000. His support people are organizing his support and raising money to post his bond. They will be passing a hat tonight at the Anarchist Bookfair Cafe. If you would like to donate money or help support the release of these folks (and their continued legal support) please contact the DASW Legal Working Group on teh NLG legal hotline at 285-1011. For support for Brian Reggins and Mitch Inclin, contact Faun at (925) 437-4682 or pitchpipeinfo-at-riseup.net
* Mitchell Anderson was released yesterday and also has a lawyer and a court date April 4.
Source and full story
California: Over 80 arrested at protest of weapons development lab.
More than 80 people were arrested Friday morning while protesting at the gates of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
About 300 people, many affiliated with various religious organizations, took part in the annual Good Friday event to protest the lab's involvement in weapons development. The day's protest included sermons and liturgy and was followed by the arrest of nonviolent protesters who refused to leave the laboratory grounds.
Livermore Lab officials reported that 83 people were arrested. There were 64 arrests last year.
Source and full story
About 300 people, many affiliated with various religious organizations, took part in the annual Good Friday event to protest the lab's involvement in weapons development. The day's protest included sermons and liturgy and was followed by the arrest of nonviolent protesters who refused to leave the laboratory grounds.
Livermore Lab officials reported that 83 people were arrested. There were 64 arrests last year.
Source and full story
Friday, March 21, 2008
Midwest Greenscare: Frank Ambrose Pleads Guilty and agrees to cooperate with Federal Authorities
From Twin Cities Eco-Prisoner Support Committee:
We have just been made aware that Frank Ambrose, one of Marie Mason’s co-indictees has plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit Arson. Page 10 point 7 of Franks plea agreement states in part that “The defendant agrees to fully cooperate with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the signatory US attorneys offices in their investigation of the charges contained in the indictment as well as the investigation of crimes for which they have actual or apparent jurisdiction.”
Source and full story, including text of plea agreement
We have just been made aware that Frank Ambrose, one of Marie Mason’s co-indictees has plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit Arson. Page 10 point 7 of Franks plea agreement states in part that “The defendant agrees to fully cooperate with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the signatory US attorneys offices in their investigation of the charges contained in the indictment as well as the investigation of crimes for which they have actual or apparent jurisdiction.”
Source and full story, including text of plea agreement
Sara Jane Olson released from prison
Kathleen Soliah, a former member of the radical Symbionese Liberation Army, was released on parole this week from a California women's prison after serving about six years behind bars for her role in a plot to kill Los Angeles police officers by blowing up their patrol cars.
The white-haired convict, who has changed her name to Sara Jane Olson, had been sentenced to 12 years in prison. Like most California inmates, Soliah earned credit against her sentence for working while in prison. She served on a maintenance crew that swept and cleaned the main yard of the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, prison officials said.
The 61-year-old Soliah, who was released Monday, must now serve a three-year parole, although prison officials declined to provide the conditions of her release.\
Source and full story
The white-haired convict, who has changed her name to Sara Jane Olson, had been sentenced to 12 years in prison. Like most California inmates, Soliah earned credit against her sentence for working while in prison. She served on a maintenance crew that swept and cleaned the main yard of the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, prison officials said.
The 61-year-old Soliah, who was released Monday, must now serve a three-year parole, although prison officials declined to provide the conditions of her release.\
Source and full story
Teenager Dies After Police In Charlotte Use Taser
A teenager died after police used a Taser on him inside a grocery store in northeast Charlotte.Charlotte-Mecklenburg police homicide detectives said they will investigate why police used the Taser on 17-year-old Darryl Turner Thursday afternoon.His mother, Tammi Fontenot, told Eyewitness News, "I want answers. I want to know why. I just want to know why.
Police said an argument escalated between Turner and one of his supervisors at a Food Lion on Prosperity Church Road. Officers said the teen assaulted a store manager by throwing an object after officers arrived on scene.Police released a statement reading, "[Turner] was highly agitated and refused all verbal commands and begin walking toward the officer." At that point, the officer used his Taser on Turner.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Mexico: Oaxaca hosts conference on political prisoners
From the 14 to the 16 of March a Forum to give a voice to political prisoners and spread awareness throughout the country took place in the city of Oaxaca.
During this forum we listened to the denunciations and testimonies of cases such as Atenco, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Tabasco where the injustice and the violence of the State manifest, whilst unjustly holding dozens of compañer@s prisoner.
This forum took place in the street, where any passerby could pause to watch, to listen, or understand the situation of the political prisoners, despite constant police surveillance.
The faces of different political prisoners from Oaxaca were printed on pages exhibited in this forum. “It is necessary to show the faces of our prisoners so that they are not only a number within the prison system, behind them there is a complete history” said a compañera from VOCAL.
Source and full story
During this forum we listened to the denunciations and testimonies of cases such as Atenco, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Tabasco where the injustice and the violence of the State manifest, whilst unjustly holding dozens of compañer@s prisoner.
This forum took place in the street, where any passerby could pause to watch, to listen, or understand the situation of the political prisoners, despite constant police surveillance.
The faces of different political prisoners from Oaxaca were printed on pages exhibited in this forum. “It is necessary to show the faces of our prisoners so that they are not only a number within the prison system, behind them there is a complete history” said a compañera from VOCAL.
Source and full story
Journalist and grand jury resister Josh Wolf recounts arrest at yesterday's anti-war protest
“You’ll be the first one cited and released,” the officer reassured me as I protested my unlawful detention.
While I was the first to be led away in handcuffs, this wasn’t the “catch and release” operation the cop had suggested it was. I actually wouldn’t be released until six that evening.
It was 10:30 a.m, and I was just about to take a break from filming and grab something for breakfast. I knew I should’ve eaten before I left, but had wanted to begin filming as early as possible.
I attended the protests as a journalist, and had been actively working to stay out of the officers’ way as I filmed the various actions commemorating the five-year anniversary of the war. I don’t pretend to be neutral; I marched down the streets in a state of rage and sadness the day the bombs were first dropped, but I was clearly acting as a news gatherer at the time of my arrest.
Source and full story
While I was the first to be led away in handcuffs, this wasn’t the “catch and release” operation the cop had suggested it was. I actually wouldn’t be released until six that evening.
It was 10:30 a.m, and I was just about to take a break from filming and grab something for breakfast. I knew I should’ve eaten before I left, but had wanted to begin filming as early as possible.
I attended the protests as a journalist, and had been actively working to stay out of the officers’ way as I filmed the various actions commemorating the five-year anniversary of the war. I don’t pretend to be neutral; I marched down the streets in a state of rage and sadness the day the bombs were first dropped, but I was clearly acting as a news gatherer at the time of my arrest.
Source and full story
Binghamton: Anti-war arrestees decry excessive force by police during protest
Six people involved in an anti-war protest in upstate New York that led to nine arrests this week are filing complaints against police, claiming officers used excessive force and handled the situation unprofessionally.
Town of Vestal police arrested the protesters Tuesday after they left the Binghamton University campus and blocked the street as they made their way to a military recruiting station.
3 of the six filing complaints against the police are facing resisting arrest and disorderly conduct charges in connection with the protest.
Source and full story
Town of Vestal police arrested the protesters Tuesday after they left the Binghamton University campus and blocked the street as they made their way to a military recruiting station.
3 of the six filing complaints against the police are facing resisting arrest and disorderly conduct charges in connection with the protest.
Source and full story
Three Anarchists Arrested in SF during Anti-war Protest need Support
Solidarity is something very important to many of us anarchists especially when our friends and loved ones are put behind bars, or when we happen to find ourselves held captive there, being kept from those we care about. Yesterday, the 19th of March, more than one-hundred people were arrested in the streets and side walks of San Francisco at the DATW. Among those were three anarchists Bryan Riggins, Kenneth Pack and Mitch Inclin who where wrongfully arrested and are now being held at the Sheriff's Dept. at 850 Bryant St. These are people who have done amazing work within their communities and have no place behind bars. We wan't them back home as soon as possible. We have been told that their arraignment will probably be on Monday, and if not on Tuesday. We would like not only support from those who are anarchists but support for all of those who have been jailed and have had friends locked away standing up and saying no to those who think it is ok for them to put profit over people and bussiness over our communities.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Over 200 arrested nationwide during protests marking the fifth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq
More than 200 people were arrested nationwide Wednesday in dozens of protests marking the fifth anniversary of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. In San Francisco, at least 140 protesters were jailed, many of them in front of the offices of Democratic Senator Diane Feinstein. In Washington, 32 people were arrested after they tried to block an entrance to the IRS.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Portland: Police attack anti-war protest
Police used pepper spray on demonstrators protesting the Iraq war in downtown Portland on its fifth anniversary. The demonstrators later hopped a train and headed for a military recruitment center across town.
Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz said Shawn Biggers, 23, was arrested Wednesday and charged with assaulting an officer, disorderly conduct and interfering with an officer after he allegedly kicked a policeman in the knee.
Source and full story
Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz said Shawn Biggers, 23, was arrested Wednesday and charged with assaulting an officer, disorderly conduct and interfering with an officer after he allegedly kicked a policeman in the knee.
Source and full story
California: 10 arrests during protest against UC Board of Regents
Ten people were arrested yesterday morning in connection with demonstrations outside the UC Board of Regents meeting at UC San Francisco after they attempted to obstruct the entrance to the meeting.
Several of the 70 to 90 demonstrators, including some UC students, protested outside the UC San Francisco Mission Bay Community Center and used bike locks to chain their necks to the exterior doors of the building beginning as early as 6:45 a.m., according to UC spokesperson Chris Harrington.
The individuals were arrested, cited and released yesterday morning on misdemeanor charges, such as trespassing, resisting arrest and malicious mischief, Harrington said.
The individuals are also being served with seven-day temporary restraining orders that will be enforced by the campus, he said.
Source and full story
Several of the 70 to 90 demonstrators, including some UC students, protested outside the UC San Francisco Mission Bay Community Center and used bike locks to chain their necks to the exterior doors of the building beginning as early as 6:45 a.m., according to UC spokesperson Chris Harrington.
The individuals were arrested, cited and released yesterday morning on misdemeanor charges, such as trespassing, resisting arrest and malicious mischief, Harrington said.
The individuals are also being served with seven-day temporary restraining orders that will be enforced by the campus, he said.
Source and full story
Hartford, Conn: 5 arrested during anti-war rally
A protest in Hartford Wednesday by some 200 clergy members, religious activists and others marking the fifth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq started with prayer and song and ended with the arrest of five protesters, who blocked an entrance to the Federal Building on Main Street.
The act of civil disobedience was a way of following their faith and of calling attention to the carnage of the war, said the Rev. Kathleen McTigue, senior minister at the Unitarian Society in New Haven, moments before she and the others were taken into custody.
"It is a way of putting our bodies in the way of business as usual and business as usual is killing people," she said.
Source and full story
The act of civil disobedience was a way of following their faith and of calling attention to the carnage of the war, said the Rev. Kathleen McTigue, senior minister at the Unitarian Society in New Haven, moments before she and the others were taken into custody.
"It is a way of putting our bodies in the way of business as usual and business as usual is killing people," she said.
Source and full story
Police Arrest 22 at Syracuse Iraq War Protest
More than 20 people were arrested during a protest on the fifth anniversary of the Iraq war in downtown Syracuse Wednesday.
Around lunchtime, a small group of people gathered for an anti-war protest. Members of the Syracuse Peace Council and their supporters gathered at Clinton Square.
Source and full story
Around lunchtime, a small group of people gathered for an anti-war protest. Members of the Syracuse Peace Council and their supporters gathered at Clinton Square.
Source and full story
Mississippi: Anti-war protester faces trial
William McLean was standing at the intersection of Hardy Street and U.S. 49 on March 5 holding a sign protesting the war in Iraq.
McLean said a Hattiesburg police officer told him to put down his sign. He said he responded, "What are you going to do if I don't put down my sign? Arrest me?"
He was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.
Source and full story
McLean said a Hattiesburg police officer told him to put down his sign. He said he responded, "What are you going to do if I don't put down my sign? Arrest me?"
He was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.
Source and full story
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
150 Arrests now reported in San Francisco anti-war protests
Approximately 150 people have been arrested in anti-war actions in downtown San Francisco today.
Actions are still progressing. San Francisco Bay Area Indymedia is keeping their site updated constantly with news trickling in from the protests.
Source and developing story
Actions are still progressing. San Francisco Bay Area Indymedia is keeping their site updated constantly with news trickling in from the protests.
Source and developing story
Marie Mason Transfered
From Twin Cities Eco-Prisoner Support Committee:
We have just confirmed that Marie has been transferred to Newaygo County Jail in White Cloud, Michigan.
At this time we are requesting that everyone cease contacting the Butler County Jail as she is no longer being held there. If you have written Marie in the last few days your letter will likely be returned. Below you will find instructions on how to write Marie at the Newaygo County Jail. We have also confirmed that she will be appearing at the U.S. District Courthouse for the Western District of Michigan in Grand Rapids, MI at 9 a.m. on Friday, March 21, 2008.
Source and full story
We have just confirmed that Marie has been transferred to Newaygo County Jail in White Cloud, Michigan.
At this time we are requesting that everyone cease contacting the Butler County Jail as she is no longer being held there. If you have written Marie in the last few days your letter will likely be returned. Below you will find instructions on how to write Marie at the Newaygo County Jail. We have also confirmed that she will be appearing at the U.S. District Courthouse for the Western District of Michigan in Grand Rapids, MI at 9 a.m. on Friday, March 21, 2008.
Source and full story
Scores arrested at anti-war protests and direct actions across the country
Protesters danced in the streets of downtown Washington, acted out a Baghdad street scene in Syracuse, N.Y., and gave out "unhappy birthday cake" in San Francisco to mark the fifth anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq.
More than 60 people were arrested, mostly at a Wednesday morning protest at the Internal Revenue Service building in Washington and at the Syracuse demonstration.
Events were held around the country calling for an end to the war. In Syracuse, police arrested 20 protesters who blocked traffic by creating a mock Baghdad street scene. One person dressed in camouflage lay on the ground. Another was covered in a white sheet with red markings and a woman leaned over as if grieving. They were from a group of more than 100 demonstrators who marched downtown in a steady rain over the lunch hour.
In Chicopee, Mass., eight people were arrested when they blocked a gate at Westover Air Reserve Base, police said. Capt. John Muraski said most of the six women and two men are retirees over 60.
Five people were arrested In Hartford, Conn., for blocking the front door of a federal courthouse.
On the West Coast, police arrested a handful of protesters outside of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, police Sgt. Steve Manina said. The bank protest was one of several planned in the area.
Source and full story
More than 60 people were arrested, mostly at a Wednesday morning protest at the Internal Revenue Service building in Washington and at the Syracuse demonstration.
Events were held around the country calling for an end to the war. In Syracuse, police arrested 20 protesters who blocked traffic by creating a mock Baghdad street scene. One person dressed in camouflage lay on the ground. Another was covered in a white sheet with red markings and a woman leaned over as if grieving. They were from a group of more than 100 demonstrators who marched downtown in a steady rain over the lunch hour.
In Chicopee, Mass., eight people were arrested when they blocked a gate at Westover Air Reserve Base, police said. Capt. John Muraski said most of the six women and two men are retirees over 60.
Five people were arrested In Hartford, Conn., for blocking the front door of a federal courthouse.
On the West Coast, police arrested a handful of protesters outside of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, police Sgt. Steve Manina said. The bank protest was one of several planned in the area.
Source and full story
Canada: Montreal police targeting 'anarchist' vandals
Montreal police are after some apparent anarchists who have vandalized a bank, a car dealership -- and police cars.
An East Montreal Mazda dealership found 43 slashed tires on its lot Tuesday morning, causing about $10,000 in damage, CTV Montreal reported Wednesday.
A group calling itself Collectif Ton Chien, or Your Dog's Group, took responsibility on an anarchist website and in communiques to various media outlets.
"They said they were inspired by -- and in solidarity with -- two groups and two actions earlier: The torching of six police cars ... and three ATM machines that were set on fire," said CTV Montreal's Herb Luft.
Those actions were said to be carried out by Collectif Ton Pere (Your Father's Group) and Collectif Ton Oncle (Your Uncle's Group), he said.
Police say the groups appear to be linked, but they have to work on proof, he said.
Source and full story
An East Montreal Mazda dealership found 43 slashed tires on its lot Tuesday morning, causing about $10,000 in damage, CTV Montreal reported Wednesday.
A group calling itself Collectif Ton Chien, or Your Dog's Group, took responsibility on an anarchist website and in communiques to various media outlets.
"They said they were inspired by -- and in solidarity with -- two groups and two actions earlier: The torching of six police cars ... and three ATM machines that were set on fire," said CTV Montreal's Herb Luft.
Those actions were said to be carried out by Collectif Ton Pere (Your Father's Group) and Collectif Ton Oncle (Your Uncle's Group), he said.
Police say the groups appear to be linked, but they have to work on proof, he said.
Source and full story
Iowa: 2 arrested during shutdown of military recruitment center
Two people have been arrested during a protest marking the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq.
Eleven protesters with Des Moines Catholic Workers crowded into the hallway at the Armed Forces Career Center in Des Moines.
Police were called and the protesters were told to leave the recruiting center or face arrest.
Ed Bloomer and Kirk Brown, both of Des Moines, were arrested for trespassing and taken to jail.
Source and full story
Eleven protesters with Des Moines Catholic Workers crowded into the hallway at the Armed Forces Career Center in Des Moines.
Police were called and the protesters were told to leave the recruiting center or face arrest.
Ed Bloomer and Kirk Brown, both of Des Moines, were arrested for trespassing and taken to jail.
Source and full story
Arrests at anti-war direct actions in San Francisco
12:15 p.m. San Francisco Police Sgt. Steve Mannina reports there have 44 arrests so far, all on misdemeanor charges. Mannina said several were arrested at 101 California, 14 at 343 California. All were cited fro trespassing and resisting arrest.
At 11 a.m., 12 women and 11 men were arrested for obstructing traffic at Third and Market streets, Mannina said.
Source and full story
At 11 a.m., 12 women and 11 men were arrested for obstructing traffic at Third and Market streets, Mannina said.
Source and full story
More than 30 arrested during anti-war shutdown of IRS
MSNBC reported that anti-war protesters in northwest D.C. blocked part of a street Wednesday afternoon.
Some demonstrators protesting on the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq targeted the K Street corridor. At about 2:30 p.m., protesters were blocking a portion of the street at K Street and Connecticut Avenue in Northwest, according to MSNBC.
Other events are being held at the Department of Veterans Affairs, McPherson Square and outside the White House.
More than 30 people were arrested Wednesday morning. A crowd of more than 100 gathered outside the IRS headquarters, chanting "This is a Crime Scene" and "You're Arresting the Wrong People." A marching band led protesters down the street near the National Mall and around the IRS building before dozens of demonstrators gathered at the entrance.
Source and full story
Some demonstrators protesting on the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq targeted the K Street corridor. At about 2:30 p.m., protesters were blocking a portion of the street at K Street and Connecticut Avenue in Northwest, according to MSNBC.
Other events are being held at the Department of Veterans Affairs, McPherson Square and outside the White House.
More than 30 people were arrested Wednesday morning. A crowd of more than 100 gathered outside the IRS headquarters, chanting "This is a Crime Scene" and "You're Arresting the Wrong People." A marching band led protesters down the street near the National Mall and around the IRS building before dozens of demonstrators gathered at the entrance.
Source and full story
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Toledo, OH: Anarchist suspected in two anti-sprawl arsons
A Lambertville youth accused of arson in the fires that destroyed two unfinished homes in Bedford Township housing developments started the fires to bring attention to the construction of new homes in the area, authorities said.
Michael W. Sykes, 17, who was arrested during last weekend's police stakeout to catch the arsonist responsible for the string of fires in the Lambertville area, was arraigned yesterday in Monroe County District Court.
He pleaded not guilty to one count each of arson and home invasion. Judge Mark Braunlich ordered the teenager held in the county jail in lieu of $1 million bond. He is scheduled to be back in court March 26 for a pretrial hearing.
Source and full story
Michael W. Sykes, 17, who was arrested during last weekend's police stakeout to catch the arsonist responsible for the string of fires in the Lambertville area, was arraigned yesterday in Monroe County District Court.
He pleaded not guilty to one count each of arson and home invasion. Judge Mark Braunlich ordered the teenager held in the county jail in lieu of $1 million bond. He is scheduled to be back in court March 26 for a pretrial hearing.
Source and full story
Angola 3 Federal civil rights trial could come by Summer
A federal trial could start this summer for three men who claim they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment because of the decades they spent in isolation cells at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, their attorney said Monday afternoon.
The federal lawsuit was filed in 2000 on behalf of two Angola inmates who were first placed into isolation cells in 1972 and a third inmate who spent 29 years in isolation before his conviction was overturned and he was released in 2001.
Source and full story
The federal lawsuit was filed in 2000 on behalf of two Angola inmates who were first placed into isolation cells in 1972 and a third inmate who spent 29 years in isolation before his conviction was overturned and he was released in 2001.
Source and full story
Three arrested at NOLA public housing demo
The latest in a string of local protests against the demolition of the city's "Big Four" public housing developments has resulted in the arrest of three vocal opponents.
About 30 protesters held signs and yelled "stop the demolition" over bullhorns outside the partially demolished St. Bernard Housing Development. They were demanding that officials at all levels stop the demolition in order to give Congress time to investigate charges of corruption against Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alfonso Jackson.
Around 10:30 a.m., New Orleans Police officers at the scene shouted from across Milton Street that "this is now a crime scene," meaning that anyone behind the yellow plastic tape would be arrested.
A few protesters objected to being shuffled outside the cordoned off area and were handcuffed and taken away in an NOPD van.
Source and full story
About 30 protesters held signs and yelled "stop the demolition" over bullhorns outside the partially demolished St. Bernard Housing Development. They were demanding that officials at all levels stop the demolition in order to give Congress time to investigate charges of corruption against Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alfonso Jackson.
Around 10:30 a.m., New Orleans Police officers at the scene shouted from across Milton Street that "this is now a crime scene," meaning that anyone behind the yellow plastic tape would be arrested.
A few protesters objected to being shuffled outside the cordoned off area and were handcuffed and taken away in an NOPD van.
Source and full story
Nine arrested in Binghamton, NY during anti-war protest
Nine people — including seven Binghamton University students — were arrested when an anti-war protest on the Vestal Parkway escalated into a confrontation with police shortly after 1 p.m. Tuesday. Three students are in jail.
The charges included obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, resisting arrest (both Class A misdemeanors) and disorderly conduct (a violation).
Initial reports said ten people, many of them students, were arrested, but a press release from the Vestal Police Department listed nine individuals charged with arrest. Three of them, Andrew B. Epstein, Thomas A. Pieragastini, and David Bittner, all BU students, are in jail on $500 bail.
Pepper spray was used on several of the protesters “when the people who were arrested started to shove,” said John Butler, Vestal’s chief of police, adding that their eyes have since been “irrigated.”
Source and full story
The charges included obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, resisting arrest (both Class A misdemeanors) and disorderly conduct (a violation).
Initial reports said ten people, many of them students, were arrested, but a press release from the Vestal Police Department listed nine individuals charged with arrest. Three of them, Andrew B. Epstein, Thomas A. Pieragastini, and David Bittner, all BU students, are in jail on $500 bail.
Pepper spray was used on several of the protesters “when the people who were arrested started to shove,” said John Butler, Vestal’s chief of police, adding that their eyes have since been “irrigated.”
Source and full story
Bush Administration Targets Latin American Solidarity Activists
In response to the democratic upsurge in Latin America, the Bush administration is targeting for special surveillance and repression US groups who lead public pressure campaigns to end US government intervention in that continent.
One of those groups is the Committee in Solidarity with the People of El Salvador, or CISPES, an organization formed in the 1980s to block the US government's role in fomenting El Salvador's civil war and the Reagan administration's support for right-wing military groups that caused the deaths of tens of thousands of Salvadorans.
In January, said CISPES executive director Burke Stansbury in a recent interview, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) sent a letter to CISPES ordering it to register as an agent of a foreign government or entity.
Source and full story
One of those groups is the Committee in Solidarity with the People of El Salvador, or CISPES, an organization formed in the 1980s to block the US government's role in fomenting El Salvador's civil war and the Reagan administration's support for right-wing military groups that caused the deaths of tens of thousands of Salvadorans.
In January, said CISPES executive director Burke Stansbury in a recent interview, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) sent a letter to CISPES ordering it to register as an agent of a foreign government or entity.
Source and full story
Lawyers for the Angola 3 work to gain release of Herman Wallace and Albert Woodfox
Citing "lost" evidence, fabricated eyewitness testimony, and the Louisiana Department of Corrections' zeal to quickly end its investigation into the 1972 murder of a prison guard at Angola, defense lawyers Monday called for the release of two men known as part of the "Angola 3."
The three men, all from New Orleans, are Albert Woodfox, Herman "Hooks" Wallace and Robert King, who were blamed for the fatal stabbing of officer Brent Miller at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in 1972, when it was known as one of the most bloody and brutal state prisons in the United States.
Source and full story
The three men, all from New Orleans, are Albert Woodfox, Herman "Hooks" Wallace and Robert King, who were blamed for the fatal stabbing of officer Brent Miller at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in 1972, when it was known as one of the most bloody and brutal state prisons in the United States.
Source and full story
NYC: Police arrest man trying to drape Tibetan flag in Times Square
Police say a protester trying to drape the Tibetan flag over the towering Yahoo! billboard in Times Square has been arrested.
The 21-year-old man was arrested on charges of criminal trespassing, disorderly conduct and reckless endangerment, police say.
The man was trying to hang the Tibetan flag on the Yahoo! sign high above the New York Police Department's substation near 43rd Street and Broadway. Tibetans have been protesting around the world since March 10, the anniversary of the failed 1959 uprising against Chinese Rule. Tibetans accuse China of trying to crush its culture.
Source and full story
The 21-year-old man was arrested on charges of criminal trespassing, disorderly conduct and reckless endangerment, police say.
The man was trying to hang the Tibetan flag on the Yahoo! sign high above the New York Police Department's substation near 43rd Street and Broadway. Tibetans have been protesting around the world since March 10, the anniversary of the failed 1959 uprising against Chinese Rule. Tibetans accuse China of trying to crush its culture.
Source and full story
Georgia: Anti-War Grannies Arrested Trying to Enlist
As part of actions across the United States to mark the fifth anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, 10 "Grandmothers for Peace", ranging in age from 57 to 80, were arrested Monday while trying to enlist in the United States Army. Acts of civil disobedience are planned this week in at least 17 other U.S. cities.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Canada: Native leaders sentenced to jail in mining protest
OTTAWA — Native leaders from a remote Northwestern Ontario reserve were sent to jail in handcuffs yesterday for opposing mining on their traditional lands, as an opposition leader blamed the Ontario government for failing to resolve the conflict.
Chief Donny Morris, deputy chief Jack McKay and four band councillors each received six-month sentences for contempt of court from the Ontario Superior Court in Thunder Bay.
It was the second time this year that aboriginal leaders have been jailed in Ontario over mining blockades.
Source and full story
Chief Donny Morris, deputy chief Jack McKay and four band councillors each received six-month sentences for contempt of court from the Ontario Superior Court in Thunder Bay.
It was the second time this year that aboriginal leaders have been jailed in Ontario over mining blockades.
Source and full story
March 2008 Prison Dispatch from Jeff “Free” Luers
What a long and strange journey this past year has been. I have been riding highs and lows as I have been struggling to regain my freedom and find a balance between my desires for this movement and my own personal happiness.
I’ve made no secret of my often conflicting emotions or my disappointment in radical struggles here in the United States. Yet, despite my confusion about my own part in this messy struggle that now sees so many of us locked behind bars—so many split once again into factions, while many others hearts are broken by the betrayals of friends and former heroes—I have strived to remain true to the ideals in which I believe. It is often difficult to carry your head high when the rest of your life feels like you are falling apart, but we must continue to do so because it is only with our heads high that we can meet the eyes of our enemy and let them know that while we may be afraid we are not cowards; that while we may be hurting we are not broken, and most importantly, that while we may be small we are not weak, we are still defiant and we can still be dangerous.
Source and full story
I’ve made no secret of my often conflicting emotions or my disappointment in radical struggles here in the United States. Yet, despite my confusion about my own part in this messy struggle that now sees so many of us locked behind bars—so many split once again into factions, while many others hearts are broken by the betrayals of friends and former heroes—I have strived to remain true to the ideals in which I believe. It is often difficult to carry your head high when the rest of your life feels like you are falling apart, but we must continue to do so because it is only with our heads high that we can meet the eyes of our enemy and let them know that while we may be afraid we are not cowards; that while we may be hurting we are not broken, and most importantly, that while we may be small we are not weak, we are still defiant and we can still be dangerous.
Source and full story
Monday, March 17, 2008
Georgia: Troy Davis denied new trial
Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) decried today’s Georgia Supreme Court decision to deny a new trial for Troy Anthony Davis, who has been on death row for more than 16 years despite significant concerns regarding his innocence. The human rights organization, which has collected more than 60,000 petition signatures while campaigning for Davis, said the ruling demonstrates a blatant disregard for justice, and asserted that the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles must grant clemency in his case.
“The claim that evidence in Davis’ favor was not sufficient to reopen his case is simply stunning,” said Larry Cox, executive director of AIUSA. “In turning a blind eye to the realities of the case, the legal system has shrugged off the very notion of justice at every level, from Savannah to the U.S. Supreme Court. The Board of Pardons must recognize that a blind adherence to technicalities cannot trump a concerted search for the truth, especially when a human being’s life is at stake."
Source and full story
“The claim that evidence in Davis’ favor was not sufficient to reopen his case is simply stunning,” said Larry Cox, executive director of AIUSA. “In turning a blind eye to the realities of the case, the legal system has shrugged off the very notion of justice at every level, from Savannah to the U.S. Supreme Court. The Board of Pardons must recognize that a blind adherence to technicalities cannot trump a concerted search for the truth, especially when a human being’s life is at stake."
Source and full story
Sunday, March 16, 2008
MOVE 9 Parole Hearings Set For April
Almost 30 years after their imprisonment, the eight remaining "MOVE 9" prisoners are now eligible for parole (see Philadelphia Inquirer and Metro articles). April hearings are scheduled for only seven, because Chuck Africa is eligible six months later than the others. In early April, they will be interviewed on an individual basis, and ultimately a majority 5/9 vote among the nine Parole Board Members will be needed for each prisoner's release on parole.
With the hearings just weeks away, MOVE is asking for support by contacting the Parole Board and signing the online petition. A new series of videos about the parole hearings features interviews with MOVE members Ramona Africa (the sole adult survivor of the May 13, 1985 police bombing of MOVE headquarters) and Mike Africa Jr. (the son of MOVE 9 prisoners Debbie and Mike Sr.). Ramona recently spoke in Harrisburg about parole, and the new Ona Move Newsletter has just been released.
Source and full story.
With the hearings just weeks away, MOVE is asking for support by contacting the Parole Board and signing the online petition. A new series of videos about the parole hearings features interviews with MOVE members Ramona Africa (the sole adult survivor of the May 13, 1985 police bombing of MOVE headquarters) and Mike Africa Jr. (the son of MOVE 9 prisoners Debbie and Mike Sr.). Ramona recently spoke in Harrisburg about parole, and the new Ona Move Newsletter has just been released.
Source and full story.
Ontario: Native Leader To Serve Six Months for Opposing Mine
(Another story from Canada)
Algonquin community leader Robert Lovelace had never been charged with an offence, but when a uranium company began prospecting for radioactive ore on unceded First Nations land without engaging in consultation, he decided to take action and organized a non-violent blockade.
On February 15, Judge Cunningham of Ontario's Superior Court sentenced Lovelace to six months in jail for contempt of court and fined him $50,000 for his involvement in the peaceful protest.
Chief Paula Sherman, elected leader of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation, a small community about 110 kilometres southwest of Ottawa, where the controversial uranium prospecting is taking place, calls Robert Lovelace "a political prisoner."
Source and full story
Algonquin community leader Robert Lovelace had never been charged with an offence, but when a uranium company began prospecting for radioactive ore on unceded First Nations land without engaging in consultation, he decided to take action and organized a non-violent blockade.
On February 15, Judge Cunningham of Ontario's Superior Court sentenced Lovelace to six months in jail for contempt of court and fined him $50,000 for his involvement in the peaceful protest.
Chief Paula Sherman, elected leader of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation, a small community about 110 kilometres southwest of Ottawa, where the controversial uranium prospecting is taking place, calls Robert Lovelace "a political prisoner."
Source and full story
California: Two Arrested in Protest at Marine Recruiting Center
Two women were arrested at the Marine Corps recruiting center in Downtown Berkeley today after allegedly sitting down inside the center and refusing to leave.
A 46-year-old El Cerrito woman and a 52-year-old San Francisco woman with anti-war group Code Pink were arrested on suspicion of trespassing, said Berkeley police Lt. Craig Guster.
Guster said that police responded at about 3:30 p.m. after the two women sat down inside the entry to the Marine Recruiting center on Shattuck Avenue and refused to leave.
Source and full story
A 46-year-old El Cerrito woman and a 52-year-old San Francisco woman with anti-war group Code Pink were arrested on suspicion of trespassing, said Berkeley police Lt. Craig Guster.
Guster said that police responded at about 3:30 p.m. after the two women sat down inside the entry to the Marine Recruiting center on Shattuck Avenue and refused to leave.
Source and full story
Michigan: 2 arrested at downtown Grand Rapids war protest
Nearly 300 anti-war activists marched, drummed and chanted their way through the streets of downtown Saturday, calling for the end of the 5-year-old war in Iraq and dodging police cruisers trying to keep them on the sidewalk.
Along the way, two protesters were arrested and are awaiting arraignment on charges of willfully obstructing a public road.
Source and full story
Along the way, two protesters were arrested and are awaiting arraignment on charges of willfully obstructing a public road.
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California: Chevron protest ends with 24 arrests
A protest outside the Chevron oil refinery in Richmond, Calif., was described as mainly peaceful despite 24 arrests.
About 300 protesters carrying signs such as "Fight toxic racism" and "End Chevron crimes from Richmond to Iraq" gathered outside the plant Saturday, but did not disrupt work going on there, the San Jose (Calif.) Mercury News reported Sunday.
The 24 arrested were transported to the city jail and cited for misdemeanor trespassing, the newspaper said.
Source and full story
About 300 protesters carrying signs such as "Fight toxic racism" and "End Chevron crimes from Richmond to Iraq" gathered outside the plant Saturday, but did not disrupt work going on there, the San Jose (Calif.) Mercury News reported Sunday.
The 24 arrested were transported to the city jail and cited for misdemeanor trespassing, the newspaper said.
Source and full story
NYPD arrest six at Tibet protest
Tensions over the Chinese government crackdown in Tibet reached Manhattan's West Side Saturday when protesters outside the Chinese Consulate building threw debris and scuffled with police, resulting in minor injuries and several arrests.
The demonstration at 12th Avenue and 42nd Street was organized by five Tibetan activists groups and began about 9 a.m. with about 300 people chanting and waving flags, witnesses and an event organizer said.
Between 11:30 a.m. and noon, about six Tibetan protesters began hurling pieces of a wooden barricade, bricks and glass bottles at the building, breaking several windows and smashing glass against the building's façade.
Source and full story
The demonstration at 12th Avenue and 42nd Street was organized by five Tibetan activists groups and began about 9 a.m. with about 300 people chanting and waving flags, witnesses and an event organizer said.
Between 11:30 a.m. and noon, about six Tibetan protesters began hurling pieces of a wooden barricade, bricks and glass bottles at the building, breaking several windows and smashing glass against the building's façade.
Source and full story
Montreal: 32 Arrested after Anti-police protest becomes rebellion
(I know this isn't in the U.S., but I will work to include some news from Canada and Mexico at times .)
Montreal police arrested 32 people Saturday after an anti-police protest turned violent, leaving the city's downtown with shattered windows, vandalized cars and a police cruiser singed by a molotov cocktail.
Montreal police Const. Laurent Gingras said demonstrators used bats, rocks, chunks of ice and their feet to smash the windows of a Subway, McDonald's and Starbucks during a three hour rampage in Montreal's downtown core.
Source and full story
Montreal police arrested 32 people Saturday after an anti-police protest turned violent, leaving the city's downtown with shattered windows, vandalized cars and a police cruiser singed by a molotov cocktail.
Montreal police Const. Laurent Gingras said demonstrators used bats, rocks, chunks of ice and their feet to smash the windows of a Subway, McDonald's and Starbucks during a three hour rampage in Montreal's downtown core.
Source and full story
Friday, March 14, 2008
Minnesota: Cops promise "gentler" RNC response, but stock up on Tazers
The NYPD's heavy-handed suppression of protests during the 2004 Republican National Convention seems to have tarnished the reputation of the world's most famous police department—even in the eyes of other police agencies.
Not that there won't be suppression of protests at this summer's RNC in Minneapolis–St. Paul.
Source and full story
Not that there won't be suppression of protests at this summer's RNC in Minneapolis–St. Paul.
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Vermont: Anti-war protesters sue cops for Tazer use
BRATTLEBORO -- In a complaint filed today in U.S. District Court, an attorney for two nonviolent protesters stunned with Tasers in July 2007 has filed six counts against the five Brattleboro police officers involved in the incident. Those counts range from false imprisonment to assault and battery to the use of excessive force.
The suit was filed in the Vermont district court because attorney David Sleigh, of Sleigh and Williams in St. Johnsbury, has contended the five police officers deprived Jonathan Crowell and Samantha Kilmurray of their civil rights when they stunned the pair for refusing to leave private property on July 24, 2007.
Source and full story
The suit was filed in the Vermont district court because attorney David Sleigh, of Sleigh and Williams in St. Johnsbury, has contended the five police officers deprived Jonathan Crowell and Samantha Kilmurray of their civil rights when they stunned the pair for refusing to leave private property on July 24, 2007.
Source and full story
Sami Al-Arian, Palestinian awaiting deportation, being denied medical care
Tampa Bay Coalition for Justice and Peace
March 14, 2008
Even after being transferred to a federal medical facility, Dr. Sami Al- Arian still has not received water or been offered an IV. A doctor who examined him Monday said he is suffering from dehydration and starvation.
TAKE ACTION TODAY (URGENT)
Please call the Butner Medical Center today and inquire about Dr. Al-Arian's health.
Ask why they haven't taken any steps to give him an IV to make sure he survives. Their number is (919) 575-3900.
March 14, 2008
Even after being transferred to a federal medical facility, Dr. Sami Al- Arian still has not received water or been offered an IV. A doctor who examined him Monday said he is suffering from dehydration and starvation.
TAKE ACTION TODAY (URGENT)
Please call the Butner Medical Center today and inquire about Dr. Al-Arian's health.
Ask why they haven't taken any steps to give him an IV to make sure he survives. Their number is (919) 575-3900.
Justice for Jason Vassell
On Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, at the University of Massachusetts, two white men kick in a black students window, insult him, verbally threaten him, call him "nigger", and force their way into his building. They assault him and break his nose. Police arrest the black man.
Jason W. Vassell, 23, has pleaded innocent to two counts of aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a knife) and two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, officials said, and is scheduled to appear in Eastern Hampshire District Court tomorrow in Belchertown for a pre-trial conference.
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Jason W. Vassell, 23, has pleaded innocent to two counts of aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a knife) and two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, officials said, and is scheduled to appear in Eastern Hampshire District Court tomorrow in Belchertown for a pre-trial conference.
Source and full story
No Borders Camp arrestee's charges reduced
Juan Esteban Ruiz was arrested during the No Borders Camp at the U.S./Mexican border on November 11, 2007, while playing the drum, in other words, using his rights to free speech, peaceful assembly, and redress of grievances specified by the first amendment to the U.S. Constitution. He was charged with two counts of assaulting a federal officer. The charge was reduced to "interfering" with a federal officer. The case is now closed.
Source and full story
Source and full story
Thursday, March 13, 2008
NYC: Anarchists coming under heat after Times Square bombing
Soon after a bicyclist threw a homemade bomb at the Times Square military recruiting station last week, press reports claimed the suspect had ties to anarchist groups.
Now local activists are complaining about a pattern of police harassment.
“I’ve been called, and I told them to call my lawyer,” said one environmental advocate who serves on a community board.
“People have been visited at their homes, and some think that their places have been broken into,” he said.
Source and full story
Now local activists are complaining about a pattern of police harassment.
“I’ve been called, and I told them to call my lawyer,” said one environmental advocate who serves on a community board.
“People have been visited at their homes, and some think that their places have been broken into,” he said.
Source and full story
California: 2 Animal Liberation Organizers sent to prison
Today, East Coast activist Laura Lungarelli was sentenced to one year in state prison followed by 5 years of probation.
She and her boyfriend Kevin Olliff plead guilty to felony burglary charges as a result of several months of surveillance by our good friend at homeland security.
Kevin was sentenced to 16 months in state prison with 3 years of probation.
Addresses for Laura and Kevin:
Maura Michlle Lungarlli, booking 1167062
Century Regional Detention Facility (CRDF)
11705 South Alameda Street
Lynwood, CA 90262
Kevin Olliff, booking 1167029
Terminal Annex P.O. Box 86164
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164
Source and full story
She and her boyfriend Kevin Olliff plead guilty to felony burglary charges as a result of several months of surveillance by our good friend at homeland security.
Kevin was sentenced to 16 months in state prison with 3 years of probation.
Addresses for Laura and Kevin:
Maura Michlle Lungarlli, booking 1167062
Century Regional Detention Facility (CRDF)
11705 South Alameda Street
Lynwood, CA 90262
Kevin Olliff, booking 1167029
Terminal Annex P.O. Box 86164
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164
Source and full story
Jeff "Free" Luers transferred
Dear Friends,
We have just been informed that Jeff has been transferred to an intake processing facility at Coffee Creek Correctional Institution in Wilsonville, Oregon. Jeff will be processed as a new prisoner and will eventually be sent to another facility for the remainder of his sentence. This transfer follows his resentencing of 2/28/08 in which his sentence was reduced from 23 years to 10 years, making him eligible for release by December 2009 with “good behavior”.
Source and full story
We have just been informed that Jeff has been transferred to an intake processing facility at Coffee Creek Correctional Institution in Wilsonville, Oregon. Jeff will be processed as a new prisoner and will eventually be sent to another facility for the remainder of his sentence. This transfer follows his resentencing of 2/28/08 in which his sentence was reduced from 23 years to 10 years, making him eligible for release by December 2009 with “good behavior”.
Source and full story
Washington: City battles port for funds to cover security expenses from anti-war protests
Aberdeen Mayor Bill Simpson and some City Council members are prodding the Port of Grays Harbor to pony up for some of the law enforcement expenses the city incurred last May to provide security for military cargo shipments.
The Department of the Army earlier flatly rejected the city’s attempts to collect $165,409 for overtime and additional manpower.
Councilman Paul Fritts sharply criticized Port officials during last night’s City Council meeting.
“You screwed the City of Aberdeen,” he declared. “You screwed the Sheriff’s Office … You screwed the City of Hoquiam … with your own basic greed for the money, and you kept the money you got.
“You claim you’re in the red,” Fritts continued, “and the fact is you owe the City of Aberdeen, the county and other entities for the money they put out to protect your butt while you profit over what is going on.”
Source and full story
The Department of the Army earlier flatly rejected the city’s attempts to collect $165,409 for overtime and additional manpower.
Councilman Paul Fritts sharply criticized Port officials during last night’s City Council meeting.
“You screwed the City of Aberdeen,” he declared. “You screwed the Sheriff’s Office … You screwed the City of Hoquiam … with your own basic greed for the money, and you kept the money you got.
“You claim you’re in the red,” Fritts continued, “and the fact is you owe the City of Aberdeen, the county and other entities for the money they put out to protect your butt while you profit over what is going on.”
Source and full story
California: UC seeks injunction against Animal Liberation Orgs.
The University of California is seeking a permanent injunction against five individuals and three anti-animal research groups in an attempt to prevent violence against researchers across the university.
The injunction is being sought after Los Angeles County Superior Court granted the university a temporary restraining order last month on behalf of UCLA, against five individuals, the Animal Liberation Front, Animal Liberation Brigade and the UCLA Primate Freedom Project. The order aims to protect students and employees involved in animal research across the 10 UC campuses, said Wendy Sugg, an attorney representing the regents.
The temporary restraining order was prompted by incidents of violence and harassment against UCLA researchers and their families that have occurred, including attempted firebombs,
threatening phone calls and e-mails.
Source and full story
The injunction is being sought after Los Angeles County Superior Court granted the university a temporary restraining order last month on behalf of UCLA, against five individuals, the Animal Liberation Front, Animal Liberation Brigade and the UCLA Primate Freedom Project. The order aims to protect students and employees involved in animal research across the 10 UC campuses, said Wendy Sugg, an attorney representing the regents.
The temporary restraining order was prompted by incidents of violence and harassment against UCLA researchers and their families that have occurred, including attempted firebombs,
threatening phone calls and e-mails.
Source and full story
Text of Michigan Green Scare Indictment
Here is the actual indictment of the 4 known Michigan Greenscare Defendants.
Michigan Eco Indictment
At this time there’s a lot we don’t know. Please understand speculation, rumors, and hearsay help no one. We will be forthcoming with confirmed information on the current situation as it becomes available.
Got Your Back
Friends of Marie Mason
P.O. Box 19065
Cincinnati, OH 45219
freemarie@riseup.net
Source and full story
Michigan Eco Indictment
At this time there’s a lot we don’t know. Please understand speculation, rumors, and hearsay help no one. We will be forthcoming with confirmed information on the current situation as it becomes available.
Got Your Back
Friends of Marie Mason
P.O. Box 19065
Cincinnati, OH 45219
freemarie@riseup.net
Source and full story
Michigan: Farm activist house burns: supporters claim arson
A Michigan farm rights activist and his family are lucky to be alive after a possible arson attack in the early morning hours of Thursday, March 6, 2008. Phil Morosky and his family were sleeping in their beds in their rural Michigan home when a passerby knocked on the door around 3 AM and told them the house was on fire.
After the fire department poured thousands of gallons of water into the house, thousands of legal documents were nothing more than icy mush. The central part of the house where the records were stored was gutted and Morosky suffered severe burns to his hands trying to save them from the fire.
Morosky’s friends and many area farm rights activists believe the fire was arson. They point to a one foot trail of fire damage which trails off the roof in a one foot wide line down to the side of the house—right over the room where Morosky kept his home office and stored legal research documents and information on the cases of thousands of black and white farmers from around the country, many of whom have lost farms in what they claim are illegal foreclosures.
Source and full story
After the fire department poured thousands of gallons of water into the house, thousands of legal documents were nothing more than icy mush. The central part of the house where the records were stored was gutted and Morosky suffered severe burns to his hands trying to save them from the fire.
Morosky’s friends and many area farm rights activists believe the fire was arson. They point to a one foot trail of fire damage which trails off the roof in a one foot wide line down to the side of the house—right over the room where Morosky kept his home office and stored legal research documents and information on the cases of thousands of black and white farmers from around the country, many of whom have lost farms in what they claim are illegal foreclosures.
Source and full story
Minneapolis: Leonard Peltier appeals conviction
American Indian Movement activist Leonard Peltier's 30-year battle against government charges he killed two FBI agents landed Tuesday in Minneapolis.
Oral arguments before a three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dealt with Peltier's attempt to get the FBI to release thousands of pages of documents about him that it has withheld.
Peltier was convicted of killing two FBI agents during a 1975 shootout on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. But his supporters, including some human rights groups, believe that he is innocent and that he was targeted because of his political activism.
About 3,500 pages were turned over for Peltier's original trial in 1977. But his attorneys have discovered over the years that the actual number of documents the FBI has on Peltier is 142,579, said attorney Michael Kuzma.
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Oral arguments before a three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dealt with Peltier's attempt to get the FBI to release thousands of pages of documents about him that it has withheld.
Peltier was convicted of killing two FBI agents during a 1975 shootout on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. But his supporters, including some human rights groups, believe that he is innocent and that he was targeted because of his political activism.
About 3,500 pages were turned over for Peltier's original trial in 1977. But his attorneys have discovered over the years that the actual number of documents the FBI has on Peltier is 142,579, said attorney Michael Kuzma.
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University of Alabama: Protesters say school penalized free speech during anti-war protest
About a dozen students showed up at Denny Chimes on the University of Alabama campus at noon Wednesday to protest the arrest of four people following an anti-war demonstration two weeks ago.
“We want an apology from the university for their attempts to equate protesting with terrorism and violence,” said Corbin Martin, a UA student and Iraq War veteran. “We refuse to be intimidated and harassed on our own campus.”
On Feb. 29, Students for a Democratic Society staged a mock interrogation near the dining area inside the UA Ferguson Center. Three students wearing Middle Eastern-style head scarves, pretending to converse in Arabic, were confronted and loudly interrogated by four men dressed as soldiers.
UA police charged four people with disorderly conduct for the theatrics.
Source and full story
“We want an apology from the university for their attempts to equate protesting with terrorism and violence,” said Corbin Martin, a UA student and Iraq War veteran. “We refuse to be intimidated and harassed on our own campus.”
On Feb. 29, Students for a Democratic Society staged a mock interrogation near the dining area inside the UA Ferguson Center. Three students wearing Middle Eastern-style head scarves, pretending to converse in Arabic, were confronted and loudly interrogated by four men dressed as soldiers.
UA police charged four people with disorderly conduct for the theatrics.
Source and full story
UCSC: Students being sued by University for role in tree-sit protest
Last Thursday night, concerned students piled into Classroom Unit 1 for the “Student Justice Teach-In,” an event held in support of Christopher David Benterou and Cruz Adam Molina. Benterou and Molina, both first-year students, are being sued by UC Santa Cruz due to their affiliation with the Long-Range Development Plan (LRDP) protest last November.
Molina faces a court hearing today at the University Inn.
An injunction released on Monday listed five others as well: Ryan Joshua Comini, Nicholas Michael Varinelli, Robin Michael Woolner, Natalie Amber Muller and Zack Schlesinger.
The injunction prevents Benterou, Molina, the other five defendants listed and “all other persons with notice of the injunction” from loitering in or around the trees at the protest site, bringing items such as sleeping bags and trash cans to the site, and providing food or supplies to denizens of the trees.
Source and full story
Molina faces a court hearing today at the University Inn.
An injunction released on Monday listed five others as well: Ryan Joshua Comini, Nicholas Michael Varinelli, Robin Michael Woolner, Natalie Amber Muller and Zack Schlesinger.
The injunction prevents Benterou, Molina, the other five defendants listed and “all other persons with notice of the injunction” from loitering in or around the trees at the protest site, bringing items such as sleeping bags and trash cans to the site, and providing food or supplies to denizens of the trees.
Source and full story
Police kill bicyclist in Eastside LA housing project
A Los Angeles police officer fatally shot a man Wednesday night in Ramona Gardens, an Eastside housing project with a history of confrontations between police and residents.
The shooting occurred just before 6 p.m. outside the Boyle Heights complex, said LAPD Officer Jason Lee.
He said the incident occurred when the man confronted two Hollenbeck Division gang officers and the police fired at him in response.
Source and full story
The shooting occurred just before 6 p.m. outside the Boyle Heights complex, said LAPD Officer Jason Lee.
He said the incident occurred when the man confronted two Hollenbeck Division gang officers and the police fired at him in response.
Source and full story
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Briana Waters accused of another ELF arson, ordered to stay in jail until sentencing on May 30th
A magistrate judge this afternoon ordered convicted eco-arsonist Briana Waters to continue to be held in jail pending her May 30 sentencing after federal prosecutors claimed she had been was involved in another Earth Liberation Front arson at a horse ranch in California. The U.S. Attorney's Office filed court documents that alleged Waters participated in that fire in hopes of ensuring a lengthy prison sentence for her conviction on two counts of arson stemming from a May 2001 fire at the University of Washington's Center for Urban Horticulture.
Waters was convicted by a federal jury in Tacoma last week following four days of deliberations. The jury deadlocked on the most serious charges, involving the use of an explosive device, that could have landed her in prison for a minimum of 30 years.
Source and full story
Waters was convicted by a federal jury in Tacoma last week following four days of deliberations. The jury deadlocked on the most serious charges, involving the use of an explosive device, that could have landed her in prison for a minimum of 30 years.
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Washington, D.C.: Police arrest several anti-war protesters in Senate gallery
U.S. Capitol Police arrested 10 war protesters who began shouting in the Senate gallery Wednesday.
The protesters were quickly hustled into a hallway and out of the view of reporters. They had chanted, "The war is immoral! Stop funding the war!" — as police officers grabbed them and physically removed them from a visitors gallery overlooking the Senate floor.
The demonstrators wore gauze shrouds over their heads and black shirts that read, "We will not be silent." One member said they represented the "National Campaign for Nonviolent Resistance."
Source and full story
The protesters were quickly hustled into a hallway and out of the view of reporters. They had chanted, "The war is immoral! Stop funding the war!" — as police officers grabbed them and physically removed them from a visitors gallery overlooking the Senate floor.
The demonstrators wore gauze shrouds over their heads and black shirts that read, "We will not be silent." One member said they represented the "National Campaign for Nonviolent Resistance."
Source and full story
Houston: 50 Wounded in Uprising at Federal Detention Center
Approximately 50 inmates and staff members were reportedly injured in a riot that took place Tuesday at the Federal Detention Center in Houston.
The riot, in which almost 80 inmates were involved, broke out at about 6:30 p.m. at the sixth floor of the detention center located on Texas Street near Caroline Street in Houston.
A man was rushed to the nearest hospital with a head injury according to District Chief Tommy Dowdy, a Houston Fire Department spokesman. The other men wounded in the fight received medical attention inside the administrative facility according to the Houston Chronicle.
Police and firefighters were called to come and intervene to end the fight at which almost 80 inmates took part.
Source and full story
The riot, in which almost 80 inmates were involved, broke out at about 6:30 p.m. at the sixth floor of the detention center located on Texas Street near Caroline Street in Houston.
A man was rushed to the nearest hospital with a head injury according to District Chief Tommy Dowdy, a Houston Fire Department spokesman. The other men wounded in the fight received medical attention inside the administrative facility according to the Houston Chronicle.
Police and firefighters were called to come and intervene to end the fight at which almost 80 inmates took part.
Source and full story
Fox News: Times Square Bombing Possibly Tied to New York Anarchist Groups
Investigators believe the bicyclist who bombed the Times Square military recruiting station is a local man with ties to chaos-crazed anarchy groups, a high-ranking law-enforcement source said yesterday.
The revelation opened a new avenue after a promising lead connecting the attack to a series of letters shipped to Washington lawmakers' offices crumbled.
The official said the entire attack - including the dumping of the bike in a trash bin blocks away from the explosion - seemed well planned because it appeared the suspect scouted out his escape route.
"He seems to be toying with everyone," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Source and full story
The revelation opened a new avenue after a promising lead connecting the attack to a series of letters shipped to Washington lawmakers' offices crumbled.
The official said the entire attack - including the dumping of the bike in a trash bin blocks away from the explosion - seemed well planned because it appeared the suspect scouted out his escape route.
"He seems to be toying with everyone," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Source and full story
Briana Waters Detention Hearing Today
This is an update for those who have been following the trial of Briana Waters, a wonderful mother and violin teacher from the Bay area who to this day maintains her innocence of these charges she was just convicted of. We are going to continue doing our best to support her in the ongoing legal battle for justice.
An important update is there is a detention hearing on Wednesday March 12, at 1:30 at the Federal courthouse in Tacoma to determine if Briana will be allowed to go home and take care of her life in preparation for her sentencing on May 30th. We are reminding people to get there early, like at 12:30, and people in Olympia will be carpooling from the Grocery Outlet Parking Lot at 11:45. Obviously, if she is living at home over the next 3 months she will be better able to prepare for an appeal, as well as be able to take care of her daughter. She and her lawyers are requesting as many people as possible to come to show that she is part of a community and NOT a flight risk. Though that should be obvious, as she has showed up to every court date and hearing in 2 years. Join us then, at 11:45 to get a ride up there and show that we are watching the so-called justice system at work.
Source and full story
An important update is there is a detention hearing on Wednesday March 12, at 1:30 at the Federal courthouse in Tacoma to determine if Briana will be allowed to go home and take care of her life in preparation for her sentencing on May 30th. We are reminding people to get there early, like at 12:30, and people in Olympia will be carpooling from the Grocery Outlet Parking Lot at 11:45. Obviously, if she is living at home over the next 3 months she will be better able to prepare for an appeal, as well as be able to take care of her daughter. She and her lawyers are requesting as many people as possible to come to show that she is part of a community and NOT a flight risk. Though that should be obvious, as she has showed up to every court date and hearing in 2 years. Join us then, at 11:45 to get a ride up there and show that we are watching the so-called justice system at work.
Source and full story
Spokane, WA: Anarchist sentenced for Recruitment Center attack
SPOKANE -- A local man suspected of attacking two local military recruiting stations has pleaded guilty in federal court.
On Wednesday Travis Riehl was convicted on one count of damaging government property.
Riehl threw a rock through the window of the Washington Air National Guard building in 2005. He also painted an anti-war slogan and an anarchist symbol on the building.
He must now pay $5,000 restitution and be on probation for the next year.
Source and full story
On Wednesday Travis Riehl was convicted on one count of damaging government property.
Riehl threw a rock through the window of the Washington Air National Guard building in 2005. He also painted an anti-war slogan and an anarchist symbol on the building.
He must now pay $5,000 restitution and be on probation for the next year.
Source and full story
Four indicted in Michigan State University ELF Arson
Grand Rapids, Michigan March 11, 2008
On the grounds of Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing, Michigan, United States Attorney Charles R. Gross, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Andrew G. Arena, MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, and MSU Police Department Chief James H. Dunlap, announced the unsealing today of a 4-count felony Indictment charging four Defendants with conspiracy to commit arson, aggravated arson, and arson in connection with the December 31, 1999, arson of Agriculture Hall on the main campus of MSU and the January 1, 2000, arson of commercial logging equipment near Mesick, Michigan. The Defendants are Marie Jeanette Mason, 46, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Frank Brian Ambrose, 33, of Detroit, Michigan; Aren Bernard Burthwick, 27, of Detroit, Michigan; and Stephanie Lynne Fultz, 27, of Detroit, Michigan.
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On the grounds of Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing, Michigan, United States Attorney Charles R. Gross, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Andrew G. Arena, MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, and MSU Police Department Chief James H. Dunlap, announced the unsealing today of a 4-count felony Indictment charging four Defendants with conspiracy to commit arson, aggravated arson, and arson in connection with the December 31, 1999, arson of Agriculture Hall on the main campus of MSU and the January 1, 2000, arson of commercial logging equipment near Mesick, Michigan. The Defendants are Marie Jeanette Mason, 46, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Frank Brian Ambrose, 33, of Detroit, Michigan; Aren Bernard Burthwick, 27, of Detroit, Michigan; and Stephanie Lynne Fultz, 27, of Detroit, Michigan.
Source and full story
launching this blog/site...
Throughout the last two years, there has been a resurgence in state attacks on revolutionaries and those organizing resistance to the state and capitalism within the United States. These attacks have come in the form of grand juries, home raids, arrests, felony indictments, spying, interrogations, imprisonment, and even death.
This site will act to serve as one of many clearing houses for information pertaining to state repression of those fighting for a just and free society against the state, capitalism, and all oppression. The focus will be on the area I know best, and has the least movements actively confronting this repression: The United States.
My hope is to get this blog/site updated at least once a day with current news ranging from arrests to court updates, to even internal prison resistance and resistance to state repression.
Much has happened in the recent past, but in the interest of not having to maticulously hunt down every update of state repression, the news on this site will start with the newest arrests related to the "Green Scare" from March 10, 2008.
This site will act to serve as one of many clearing houses for information pertaining to state repression of those fighting for a just and free society against the state, capitalism, and all oppression. The focus will be on the area I know best, and has the least movements actively confronting this repression: The United States.
My hope is to get this blog/site updated at least once a day with current news ranging from arrests to court updates, to even internal prison resistance and resistance to state repression.
Much has happened in the recent past, but in the interest of not having to maticulously hunt down every update of state repression, the news on this site will start with the newest arrests related to the "Green Scare" from March 10, 2008.
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