[Note: Friends of Justice is a personal blog. I speak only for myself.]
Dear Friend of Justice,
Yesterday my partner Jim and I had a wonderful lunch with Joseph Allen, NCRJ Treasurer Frank Kane, and an NCRJ supporter.
Less than half an hour ago I received a most disturbing phone call from Joseph Allen.
(Read about the Smith/Allen case here.)
Over a year ago, Judge James Burge rightfully ordered both Joseph and his co-defendant, Nancy Smith, acquitted.
Shamefully, this decision was appealed by the District Attorney and Ohio’s Attorney General.
If I understood Joseph correctly, the Appeals Court has decided to let Smith’s acquittal stand but has thrown out Joseph’s acquittal.
The reason: in 1994 Smith’s attorney filed a motion for acquittal but Joseph’s lawyer did not.
I am stunned by this news. But nothing about the criminally dysfunctional American “justice” system surprises me anymore.
I am trying to find information online but thus far I have not. I’ve asked Joseph to call me if he finds out anything more. If any of you have any relevant information, please let me know.
Sad and angry as I am, I haven’t given up hope.
-Bob Chatelle
