Dear Supporters:
This end-of-year Blog was supposed to be just a thank you and good wishes for the holidays and New Year, however, on December 18th, Leonard Peltier made such an outrageous public statement that a strong response is essential.
First though, to all those who have supported the cause for honoring the sacrifice of two young men brutally murdered in the line of duty and helping to ensure that their killer serves the remainder of his sentences, thank you for your continuing support.
A Merry Christmas to all those who celebrated it, and Happy Holidays to all, and a healthy and happy New Year to everyone. America is going through a very difficult time in its history and hopefully 2012 will see some positive hope for change.
Peltier says that his time in prison “is hell,” which should come as no surprise; he wasn’t sent to summer camp. His confinement is appropriate for his crimes.
But most predictably, living the folklore he created, Peltier has completely lost touch with reality—being totally clueless about the facts surrounding his conviction, making things up, and then thinking that repeating it enough times it magically becomes true.
Peltier continues: “On June 26th 1975 they attacked the village of Oglala on the Pine Ridge Reservation.”
“The village,” Leonard? You were there. Does the fact that all this happened a few miles away and on the Jumping Bull property, not in the village, mean anything?
“It started with two FBI agents in unmarked cars and unmarked clothing, firing into an enclave of dwellings.”
It was well known, and even came out during the trial (You did attend your own trial, right?), that white guys, in civilian clothes, driving late model cars with antennas, were Feds. Everyone knew that…especially Norman Charles who was with you that day when Agents Coler and Williams followed you from Highway 18 onto the Jumping Bull property.
“…firing into an enclave of dwellings?”
Really? Perhaps you should be reminded that you and the former LPDC kept claiming that “a family was caught in the crossfire” until challenged, and you dropped that from your website. (see footnote #1 below) (Coincidentally, that essay was dated December 15, 2001, ten years ago. Also, since it became apparent around 2003 that the LPDC was keeping secrets, you began receiving hard copies of everything posted on the NPPA website, and now the Blogs as well. Enclosed you’ll also find Editorial Essay #13, “The LPDC concedes a major point in the Peltier debate; Paragraph #5,” just to refresh your recollection.)
It was evident from your trial that the “critical witnesses” established for the jury where you and the others were firing from and where you stopped Sam Loud Hawk’s suburban and began firing at the following agents, stopping them in an open field. (Fn. #2) And, then joined by others from the AIM camp (including Robert Robideau and Dino Butler), catching—the agents—not a family, in a deadly crossfire. Angie Long Visitor, albeit reluctantly, helped establish where your suburban was during the shooting (trial transcript at 2687).
You say they, “attacked,” “it started,” and they were “firing.” Is that right Leonard? Then how does that explain Agent Williams’ radio calls for assistance overheard by many agents and law enforcement officials that they were about to come under fire? (Fn. #3)
Even your pseudo-mentor, Peter Matthiessen didn’t buy that scenario. “If there is another persuasive explanation for the location and positions of their cars, I cannot find it.” (Fn. #4)
No matter how much you to try to fabricate (mythologize) what happened, you cannot get beyond the “timing” and sequence of events of what happened that day. (Fn. #5)
Your extradition from Canada: “…they got someone to lie to bring me back from there.”
No surprise on the folklore front: Leonard, do you remember the irony from your trial that one of your own attorneys characterized Myrtle Poor Bear as “…a witness whose mental imbalance is so gross as to render her testimony unbelievable.” (Fn. #6) In other words they did not even want to use her to impeach her prior statements and the agents who interviewed her. Yet, also remember (however long ago you may have see it, or maybe in prison you never have; in the film “Incident at Oglala”), that Poor Bear sounded, at least, convincing. And, how can you ignore that the Canadian Government on October 12, 1999, had the final word on your extradition when they “…concluded that Leonard Peltier was lawfully extradited to the United States.” (Fn. #7)
“They ultimately got a conviction saying I was guilty of murder which was later amended to aiding and abetting.”
Well, not quite, Leonard. You tried this line before and it didn’t work then either. Quoting from the Eighth Circuit Court (1993): “Peltier’s arguments fail because their underlying premises are FATALLY FLAWED. (A) The Government tried the case on the alternative theories; it asserted that Peltier personally killed the agents at point blank range, BUT IF HE HAD NOT DONE SO, THEN HE WAS EQUALLY GUILTY OF MURDER AS AN AIDER AND ABETTOR.” (Fn. #8) Exactly what part of “equally guilty” do you have trouble grasping?
Even your FBI Wanted Poster, Identification Order IO #4681, dated December 3, 1975 (yes, that’s 19-7-5, and it’s on the NPPA website), clearly reveals you were being sought for “Aiding and Abetting.” (Fn. #9)
“Then later an individual who some called Mr. X, on tape admitted he was the shooter.”
OMG! Leonard, you must be going stir crazy to think for a nanosecond you can get any traction bringing back that fable.
Let’s remind you of what you said in “Incident at Oglala.”
After Robideau provides detail and pointing for the camera, how the person you all knew, bringing dynamite to the AIM camp, killed the agents and drove off in the infamous red pickup; in the next scene you said:
“THIS STORY IS TRUE. But I can’t and will not say anything about it. For me to testify against anybody, or even mention, or try to get somebody else in trouble is wrong. And I won’t do it.”
Then it shouldn’t matter that one of your closest AIM confidants, present and participating in the assault on the agents that day, called you a liar.
In 1995, Dino Butler made it very clear that the whole Mr. X and red pickup was fabricated “To create this lie to show that someone else pulled the trigger.” He believed that “…nobody would use this Mr. X theory-that it would be shelved.” (Fn. #10) But you and Robideau did it anyway. And that lie didn’t work. Not even Matthiessen believed it, but reported it just the same. (Fn. #11)
Would it matter too that you had already backed away from the Mr. X fabrication? In the A&E program, “American Justice: Murder on a Reservation” (October, 2000) you said, “I don’t know who killed them. I mean, I can’t say anything about that. I just, I just don’t know who did it. I don’t wanna know.”
And finally, is it any coincidence that in your High School level book, “Prison Writings” (1999), miraculously you never mentioned one word about a phantom shooter in the infamous red pickup? No, but instead you offered the absurd, and easily disproven fabrication that this was all a pre-planned assault by the government to provoke a confrontation with AIM: An absurd and easily disproven fallacy. (Fn. #12)
So which Peltier version are we supposed to believe? Leonard, please tell us.
“Bob Robideau one of the original two men acquitted by reason of self-defense later told retired FBI Agent Ed Wood he was Mr. X and that he had shot the agents.”
First, one would think that after nearly twelve years of constant in-your-face involvement, Peltier would get the name right. It’s Woods, with an ‘s.’ But maybe he does that on purpose; perhaps I should refer to him as Pel-Tee A, instead of the Americanized Pet-Teer as he prefers. After all he does have a lot of French in him.
Yes, Robideau (more French…seems to be a pattern here...may he rest in peace…or maybe not) did tell me that he was the phantom Mr. X and that he killed the agents. He also said “they died like worms.” (Fn. 13)
And he ought to know…why? Because he was there. This was stated a long time ago that there were five people who knew exactly who made the final killing shots to the faces of Jack Coler and Ron Williams. (Although after nearly twelve years of research in the Peltier matter—and I have no specific proof—but I personally believe there were others at the agent’s vehicles in those final moments. Joe Stuntz would be high on the list). But, now three are dead, Jack, Ron and Robideau. Butler has remained relatively silent (perhaps the only one with a conscience), so that leaves Peltier putting the deed on Robideau.
But there’s a flaw in that theory as well. Personally, I think Robideau was too weak and feeble and not man enough to be able to shoot even wounded and defenseless men. The tough guy Peltier (in 1975, that is) is a different story, but as has been sarcastically asked a number of times; “Leonard, were you in Seattle that day?” No, you were at Jumping Bull along with Robideau and Butler in those horrifying final moments. Personally, I believe that you pulled the trigger, but even if by some stretch you didn’t (or perhaps you each took one final killing shot—unlikely, but possible), you still aided and abetted in the murder of two FBI agents and that’s why you’re sitting in that 6X8’ concrete cell you hate so much. And where you will remain until your back-to-back life sentences and the seven consecutive years for the armed escape from Lompoc are completed.
As for the final scene and your relationship in the later years with Robideau, I’ll simply repeat what was posted on this website when he died in February 2009: “Perhaps Peltier will not admit it, but he is probably grateful that one more thorn in his side has been removed. This death could also provide Peltier with yet another diversion from the facts surrounding the Incident at Oglala. It is reasonable to assume that Peltier may now dump all the blame on Robideau. But even if he does, it matters little, Peltier was convicted of aiding and abetting in the agents' deaths and nothing...repeat, nothing...removes the three of them from the crime scene.” (Fn. 14)
However, there is one question you can answer for us. After the agents were murdered (they were shot in the face at point blank range; so much for a self-defense theory), which one of you rolled them over, as they were later found, face down in the dirt? I know you can answer that one.
And there’s more. (I know this has been repeated many times, but it is so essential that Peltier supporters should be constantly reminded.) From your own words to your biographer Peter Matthiessen. After the murders you and others looted the agents vehicles. And you described one moment: “I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing of it at the time; all I could think of was, We got to get out of here.”
So, smiling, Stuntz puts on the dead agent’s FBI jacket, as you all stole their weapons, while the two mutilated bodies lay at your feet. Quite a scene to imagine, and one you can’t deny.
You described perfectly the actions of yourself and the other cowards.
The folklore and myth are dying, along with any meaningful support you pretend to have.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Postscript : Editorial Essays vs. Blogs: All the approximately 60 formal Editorial Essays on the NPPA website deal strictly with the facts surrounding the trial, conviction, appeals and statements made by Peltier over the years (the exceptions are the Pilgrimage and Mission essays). They are factual and supported by appropriate footnotes and sources. Some have taken months of research and writing. Blogs, however, are more conversational in nature, less formal and essentially become a free-flowing dialogue, but specific references are provided as well. This would be the kind of conversation we’d have if I sat down with Leonard in the visiting room at FCI Coleman.
Footnotes:
1) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#13
2) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical
3) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#smoking
4) “In the Spirit of Crazy Horse;” p.544
5) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/timing.html
6) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/585.html (see II.B.2.i)
7) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/canadaletter.html (p.4)
8) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/court.html.
9) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/images/warrant.gif
10) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html
11) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/interview.html
12) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#amazon
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/myth.html
13) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critic;
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#smoking
14) http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#robideau
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critic;
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#thankyou
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
PELTIER: HAPPY THANKSGIVING
PELTIER: Happy Thanksgiving—NOT
Again this year, Peltier sends his Day of Mourning, Thanksgiving Day message launched into cyberspace by the LPDOC. This year’s message contained a lot of “facts” about the history of this “holiday.” Some of Peltier’s historical references are a bit skewed and perhaps we can offer some other “facts” for Peltier followers to consider.
Peltier is irresponsible again with the mantra equating the treatment of Native Americans to genocide and the Holocaust. “The United States did not follow a policy of genocide; it did try to find a just solution to the Indian problem. The consistent idea was to civilize the Indians, incorporate them into the community, make them part of the melting pot. That it did not work, that it was foolish, conceited, even criminal, may be true, but that doesn’t turn a well-meant program into genocide, certainly not the genocide as we have known in the twentieth century.*
Can’t argue with a few of his facts though, many Reservations are deplorable, America’s original failed welfare system, making mere survival a challenge with particularly the young robbed of opportunities for successful lives. Although sparsely populated they are worse in many ways than the harshest inner cities. (Of course, there are fortunate tribes and Nations that are privileged to be near population and tourist centers, those with lucrative tribal benefits and incomes, some even with corporate flight departments. But then there’s the whole gambling thing…more exploitation perhaps…and by whom? To quote Leonard, “Ask any Pequot.”)
And we will give Peltier his due (as we have in the past**) when he does make a meaningful suggestion, as rare as they have been. Here he implores those who can have a good Thanksgiving dinner to donate it to those who don’t or can’t…admirable…we should all make those sacrifices when we can.
But let’s add a few more “facts” to Peltier’s list:
Fact: There was plenty of Indian on Indian violence long before (and after) the first white man stepped foot on the North American Continent. Some tribes were completely annihilated or enslaved by other more violent and aggressive tribes.
Fact: Many tribes laid claims to the same lands allegedly belonging to others. Many tribes cooperated, for their own benefit, with the occupying English, French and Spanish.
Fact: the American Indian Movement (AIM) failed in both message and deeds to help their own people in distress. They created more problems than they ever solved; if there is any doubt about that, just explore its history.
Fact: Wounded Knee (1890) was a tragedy, a massacre. Wounded Knee II (1973) was a demonstration of destructive lawlessness by a domestic terrorist organization.
Fact: On June 26, 1975, Leonard Peltier was not in Seattle.
Fact: Peltier knew he was wanted that day for an assault on a police officer (yes, he did beat that one), and knew that the agents following him onto Jumping Bull were looking, and had a warrant, for fugitive, Jimmy Eagle.
Fact: Peltier knew this because Norman Charles had been stopped and interviewed by Agents Coler and Williams just the day before when they thought that he may have been Jimmy Eagle. But that didn’t prevent Peltier, Norman Charles and Joe Stuntz from stopping and firing at the agents, pinning them down in an open field.
Fact: After the initial shooting began, Peltier was joined by AIM members (including Robert Robideau and Dino Butler) who also fired at the agents, catching them in a crossfire.
Fact: Agent Williams made radio calls for help that were overheard by other agents and those in the FBI’s Rapid City office. They also heard agent Williams get shot.
Fact: After the agents were severely wounded and unable to defend themselves, their heads were destroyed with a high powered weapon at contact range: Agent Williams had a defensive wound causing his fingers to be blown through his face.
Fact: While the agents lay dead on the ground (moved and rolled over), Peltier and the others ransacked their vehicles and stole their weapons.
Fact: With the dead agents at their feet, Peltier is quoted and describes the following, “I seen Joe (Stuntz) when he pulled it out of the trunk (the dead agent’s FBI jacket) and I looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing of it at the time; all I could think of was, We got to get out of here!”***
Fact: As a mater of recent testimony Peltier was quoted as saying “The ___ - ___ begged for his life but I shot him anyway.”
Fact: Robert Robideau, quoted in an email; “…they died like worms.”****
Fact: The jury had to consider (among other evidence) testimony from the “Critical Witnesses,” removing any reasonable doubt about Peltier’s guilt.*****
Peltier ends his message with, “If between football games and turkey and dressing you can remember me and those like me, I will be thankful as well.”
And, aside from the myth as a warrior and the alleged charitable fundraising******, we did, and will continue to remember Peltier and any others like him at FCI Coleman and elsewhere, as the unrepentant, low-life, cowardly murderer he is and always will be.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
*Stephen E. Ambrose
**http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#7
***In the Spirit of Crazy Horse, p.552
****http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#self
*****http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical
****** http://www.noparolepeltier.com/myth.html; http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#fraud
Again this year, Peltier sends his Day of Mourning, Thanksgiving Day message launched into cyberspace by the LPDOC. This year’s message contained a lot of “facts” about the history of this “holiday.” Some of Peltier’s historical references are a bit skewed and perhaps we can offer some other “facts” for Peltier followers to consider.
Peltier is irresponsible again with the mantra equating the treatment of Native Americans to genocide and the Holocaust. “The United States did not follow a policy of genocide; it did try to find a just solution to the Indian problem. The consistent idea was to civilize the Indians, incorporate them into the community, make them part of the melting pot. That it did not work, that it was foolish, conceited, even criminal, may be true, but that doesn’t turn a well-meant program into genocide, certainly not the genocide as we have known in the twentieth century.*
Can’t argue with a few of his facts though, many Reservations are deplorable, America’s original failed welfare system, making mere survival a challenge with particularly the young robbed of opportunities for successful lives. Although sparsely populated they are worse in many ways than the harshest inner cities. (Of course, there are fortunate tribes and Nations that are privileged to be near population and tourist centers, those with lucrative tribal benefits and incomes, some even with corporate flight departments. But then there’s the whole gambling thing…more exploitation perhaps…and by whom? To quote Leonard, “Ask any Pequot.”)
And we will give Peltier his due (as we have in the past**) when he does make a meaningful suggestion, as rare as they have been. Here he implores those who can have a good Thanksgiving dinner to donate it to those who don’t or can’t…admirable…we should all make those sacrifices when we can.
But let’s add a few more “facts” to Peltier’s list:
Fact: There was plenty of Indian on Indian violence long before (and after) the first white man stepped foot on the North American Continent. Some tribes were completely annihilated or enslaved by other more violent and aggressive tribes.
Fact: Many tribes laid claims to the same lands allegedly belonging to others. Many tribes cooperated, for their own benefit, with the occupying English, French and Spanish.
Fact: the American Indian Movement (AIM) failed in both message and deeds to help their own people in distress. They created more problems than they ever solved; if there is any doubt about that, just explore its history.
Fact: Wounded Knee (1890) was a tragedy, a massacre. Wounded Knee II (1973) was a demonstration of destructive lawlessness by a domestic terrorist organization.
Fact: On June 26, 1975, Leonard Peltier was not in Seattle.
Fact: Peltier knew he was wanted that day for an assault on a police officer (yes, he did beat that one), and knew that the agents following him onto Jumping Bull were looking, and had a warrant, for fugitive, Jimmy Eagle.
Fact: Peltier knew this because Norman Charles had been stopped and interviewed by Agents Coler and Williams just the day before when they thought that he may have been Jimmy Eagle. But that didn’t prevent Peltier, Norman Charles and Joe Stuntz from stopping and firing at the agents, pinning them down in an open field.
Fact: After the initial shooting began, Peltier was joined by AIM members (including Robert Robideau and Dino Butler) who also fired at the agents, catching them in a crossfire.
Fact: Agent Williams made radio calls for help that were overheard by other agents and those in the FBI’s Rapid City office. They also heard agent Williams get shot.
Fact: After the agents were severely wounded and unable to defend themselves, their heads were destroyed with a high powered weapon at contact range: Agent Williams had a defensive wound causing his fingers to be blown through his face.
Fact: While the agents lay dead on the ground (moved and rolled over), Peltier and the others ransacked their vehicles and stole their weapons.
Fact: With the dead agents at their feet, Peltier is quoted and describes the following, “I seen Joe (Stuntz) when he pulled it out of the trunk (the dead agent’s FBI jacket) and I looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing of it at the time; all I could think of was, We got to get out of here!”***
Fact: As a mater of recent testimony Peltier was quoted as saying “The ___ - ___ begged for his life but I shot him anyway.”
Fact: Robert Robideau, quoted in an email; “…they died like worms.”****
Fact: The jury had to consider (among other evidence) testimony from the “Critical Witnesses,” removing any reasonable doubt about Peltier’s guilt.*****
Peltier ends his message with, “If between football games and turkey and dressing you can remember me and those like me, I will be thankful as well.”
And, aside from the myth as a warrior and the alleged charitable fundraising******, we did, and will continue to remember Peltier and any others like him at FCI Coleman and elsewhere, as the unrepentant, low-life, cowardly murderer he is and always will be.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
*Stephen E. Ambrose
**http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#7
***In the Spirit of Crazy Horse, p.552
****http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#self
*****http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical
****** http://www.noparolepeltier.com/myth.html; http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#fraud
Friday, November 11, 2011
PELTIER'S MISSING MEMO & APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Peltier “floored” at FCI Coleman.
Immediate Press Release; Dateline: October 27, 2011, Fargo, North Dakota: The Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee (LPDOC) is urging supporters to inundate the Acting Director of the Bureau of Prisons because: “Leonard is being isolated as never before. In addition, Leonard has been assigned to a top bunk. Due to a torn ligament which has never been repaired, Leonard’s ability to climb safely is diminished. Mr. Peltier also should be placed in a unit with older prisoners, but Coleman has Leonard listed as being 57 years of age when, in fact, he is 67 years old. All of Leonard’s prison records over these many years clearly indicate his correct date of birth. Curious, right?” And, the LPDOC adds, “Increased activity with regard to legal visits, LOBBYING, outreach, event planning and management, etc., are putting a strain on our limited resources. Please help. No amount is too small. MAKE AN END-OF-THE-YEAR DONATION TODAY…”
___________
Apparently Peltier’s most recent cellmate (name unknown, but it would be interesting to know) never got “the Memo.” The Memo (albeit, satire) would have described that this new cellmate was America’s foremost political prisoner, that he’s innocent, has worldwide support, but an Indian who was prosecuted only because someone had to pay for the murder of two FBI agents at Pine Ridge in 1975.
Or at least that’s what the mythology would have one believe.
Although, maybe Peltier’s latest cellmate knows exactly who the warrior thinks he is, but hasn’t bought into folklore, or, could care less about Peltier’s reputation and is content to let the tough guy sleep on the floor.
Begging for money again as they do, the LPDOC uses a very dangerous word, “lobbying.” Really? Is this the Leonard Peltier Political Action Committee (LEO-PAC)? Because that will open another whole set of issues for Peltier. Let’s start first with some honesty on the finances. Peltier has kept this dirty little secret for much too long…his supporters should be demanding some “transparency.” (Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#fraud)
_________
Forrest Yerman & Lamonte Boddie
On a more serious note other, than who gets the lower bunk: A young graduate student, (as reported by “the appalachian online”), Forrest Yerman, at Appalachian State University (ASU), Boone, NC., is “…prepared to sit out here as long as it takes to give him freedom.” The “him” being, Leonard Peltier, and the “here,” during lunch at ASU’s Plemmons Student Union. His tri-fold sign reads, “Free Leonard Peltier a Native American Political Prisoner.”
Yerman is also supported by Lamonte Boddie, president of the local Native American Council chapter.
They both referred to the recent petition for clemency that was the subject of the latest NPPA (10/22/11) Blog. That Blog destroyed the petition, not with innuendo or misinformation, but with facts and quotes directly from the record and Peltier. The petition itself was one continuous fabrication, yet people buy into it…
“As a Native American, my decision was very easy,” Boddie is quoted as saying.
So does that mean—regardless of the facts—or but for the fact that Peltier is a Native American, support for him should be unquestioned? Lamonte continued with “I have always been an advocate for my people and all people for that matter.”
Should we assume that those “other” people he refers to also include two young FBI agents savagely murdered in the line of duty? We would assume so.
Just a suggestion; how about Forrest and Lamonte using some of those critical analytical and research skills learned at ASU and really dig into the Peltier matter. Certainly don’t stop at Peltier’s website, nor the NPPA’s (although all the reference material, in its entirety, is there, along with the answers to every single question raised over the last 34 years regarding the Incident at Oglala and Peltier’s conviction). It would be hopeful that by seeing the entire picture they would come to some different conclusions regarding Peltier’s actual guilt. I, for one, would welcome constructive dialogue.
Should it be difficult to support someone’s alleged innocence when he is quoted as saying, “I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing of it at the time; all I could think of was, We go to get out of here.”
Peltier has proven his guilt more times than even he’d like to recall and it’s a shame if two young college students haven’t taken the time and effort to find the truth. It has nothing to do with being Indian…but with a brutal crime and justice.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Immediate Press Release; Dateline: October 27, 2011, Fargo, North Dakota: The Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee (LPDOC) is urging supporters to inundate the Acting Director of the Bureau of Prisons because: “Leonard is being isolated as never before. In addition, Leonard has been assigned to a top bunk. Due to a torn ligament which has never been repaired, Leonard’s ability to climb safely is diminished. Mr. Peltier also should be placed in a unit with older prisoners, but Coleman has Leonard listed as being 57 years of age when, in fact, he is 67 years old. All of Leonard’s prison records over these many years clearly indicate his correct date of birth. Curious, right?” And, the LPDOC adds, “Increased activity with regard to legal visits, LOBBYING, outreach, event planning and management, etc., are putting a strain on our limited resources. Please help. No amount is too small. MAKE AN END-OF-THE-YEAR DONATION TODAY…”
___________
Apparently Peltier’s most recent cellmate (name unknown, but it would be interesting to know) never got “the Memo.” The Memo (albeit, satire) would have described that this new cellmate was America’s foremost political prisoner, that he’s innocent, has worldwide support, but an Indian who was prosecuted only because someone had to pay for the murder of two FBI agents at Pine Ridge in 1975.
Or at least that’s what the mythology would have one believe.
Although, maybe Peltier’s latest cellmate knows exactly who the warrior thinks he is, but hasn’t bought into folklore, or, could care less about Peltier’s reputation and is content to let the tough guy sleep on the floor.
Begging for money again as they do, the LPDOC uses a very dangerous word, “lobbying.” Really? Is this the Leonard Peltier Political Action Committee (LEO-PAC)? Because that will open another whole set of issues for Peltier. Let’s start first with some honesty on the finances. Peltier has kept this dirty little secret for much too long…his supporters should be demanding some “transparency.” (Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#fraud)
_________
Forrest Yerman & Lamonte Boddie
On a more serious note other, than who gets the lower bunk: A young graduate student, (as reported by “the appalachian online”), Forrest Yerman, at Appalachian State University (ASU), Boone, NC., is “…prepared to sit out here as long as it takes to give him freedom.” The “him” being, Leonard Peltier, and the “here,” during lunch at ASU’s Plemmons Student Union. His tri-fold sign reads, “Free Leonard Peltier a Native American Political Prisoner.”
Yerman is also supported by Lamonte Boddie, president of the local Native American Council chapter.
They both referred to the recent petition for clemency that was the subject of the latest NPPA (10/22/11) Blog. That Blog destroyed the petition, not with innuendo or misinformation, but with facts and quotes directly from the record and Peltier. The petition itself was one continuous fabrication, yet people buy into it…
“As a Native American, my decision was very easy,” Boddie is quoted as saying.
So does that mean—regardless of the facts—or but for the fact that Peltier is a Native American, support for him should be unquestioned? Lamonte continued with “I have always been an advocate for my people and all people for that matter.”
Should we assume that those “other” people he refers to also include two young FBI agents savagely murdered in the line of duty? We would assume so.
Just a suggestion; how about Forrest and Lamonte using some of those critical analytical and research skills learned at ASU and really dig into the Peltier matter. Certainly don’t stop at Peltier’s website, nor the NPPA’s (although all the reference material, in its entirety, is there, along with the answers to every single question raised over the last 34 years regarding the Incident at Oglala and Peltier’s conviction). It would be hopeful that by seeing the entire picture they would come to some different conclusions regarding Peltier’s actual guilt. I, for one, would welcome constructive dialogue.
Should it be difficult to support someone’s alleged innocence when he is quoted as saying, “I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing of it at the time; all I could think of was, We go to get out of here.”
Peltier has proven his guilt more times than even he’d like to recall and it’s a shame if two young college students haven’t taken the time and effort to find the truth. It has nothing to do with being Indian…but with a brutal crime and justice.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Saturday, October 22, 2011
PELTIER NEARING CLEMENCY...
Well, that would be the plan anyway.
In another effort to perpetuate the Peltier myth*, the LPDOC urged followers to sign an online clemency petition to President Obama. The LPDOC still hasn’t realized this is not a popularity contest and prove they are not reluctant to offer falsehoods even to the President of the United States; for example:
1) “10th Circuit Court of Appeals: …Much of the government’s behavior…and its prosecution of Leonard Peltier is to be condemned. The government withheld evidence. It intimidated witnesses. These facts are not disputed.”
What the President will understand is that although this particular court is entitled to its opinion, it had nothing to do with the facts surrounding Peltier’s conviction for the murders of Agents Coler and Williams, but a Habeas Corpus appeal relating to a decision by the parole board.
What’s more compelling though, is what preceded this statement as the court denied Peltier’s appeal:
"Previous federal court decisions provided the (Parole) Commission with ample facts to support its conviction that Peltier personally shot Agent Coler and Williams." And further, "While Mr. Peltier, asserts 'the Commission identified no plausible evidence that [he] shot the agents after they were incapacitated,' this statement is simply not true. The evidence linking Mr. Peltier to these crimes is enumerated above. The most damning evidence, the .223 shell casing found in Agent Coler's trunk, may be more equivocal after the surfacing of the October 2nd teletype, but it has not been 'ruled out,' as Mr. Peltier contends. There is no direct evidence that Mr. Peltier shot the agents because no one testified they saw him pull the trigger. But as we stated above, and restate here, the body of circumstantial evidence underlying the Commission's decision is sufficient for the purpose of rational basis review."
(Please see a review and the complete decision on the NPPA website here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/tenth_circuit.html)
2) “While others were acquitted on grounds of self defense, Peltier was convicted in connection with the 1975 shooting deaths of two FBI agents.”
“Self defense?”
Mr. President, please imagine this scene:
Two dead FBI agents laying on the ground—with their faces blown off—and while Peltier and others ransack their vehicles and possessions Peltier says, “I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing about it at the time; all I could think of was, We got to get out of here.” (Matthiessen, ITSOCH, p.532). That Joe, was Joe Stuntz, wearing the dead agent’s FBI jacket; Stuntz was killed later that day while shooting at responding agents and officers. Also, one of those who was there (Robert Robideau) and literally got away with murder, later wrote in an email to this writer: “…they died like worms.” “They were shot in the head at close range.” During his escape from Pine Ridge, as accounted in later trials, Peltier described the scene, as “…the m------ f----- was begging for his life, but I shot him anyway.” (Referring to Agent Williams who had defensive wounds as well.) Or, as late as February 6, 2010 in a public statement, Peltier said, “I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do.”
Yes, Mr. President, he said it was the right thing to do…
(Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#self
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#finished, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#confession)
3) “Evidence shows that prosecutors knowingly presented false statements to a Canadian court to extradite Peltier…”
Well, that’s not quite the case—no pun intended—and the proof comes not from Peltier nor the NPPA but the Canadian Government. It should come as no surprise that an October 12, 1999 letter to then U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno from the Canadian Minister of Justice stated, “I have concluded that Mr. Peltier was lawfully extradited to the United States.”
(Please see the entire letter here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/canadaletter.html)
4) “…and manufactured the murder weapon (the gun and shell casings entered into evidence didn't match; this fact was hidden from the jury).”
Again, that’s not quite how the President will see it. The October 2, 1975 teletype (referenced above) was not required to be turned over to the defense during the discovery process (Brady material) but was later obtained by Peltier through the Freedom of Information Act. He appealed and this led to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals directing the district court to conduct an evidentiary (ballistics) hearing, which it did in October 1984. Of course, the LPDOC fails to mention this three-day evidentiary hearing or the fact that Peltier “…had an independent firearms expert present in the courtroom at the hearing, but he was not called to testify.” Peltier appealed that decision again and the Eighth Circuit Court concluded, “When all is said and done, however, a few simple but very important facts remain. The casing introduced into evidence had in fact been extracted from the Wichita AR-15. This point was not disputed; although the defense had its own ballistics expert, it offered no contrary evidence.”
So, Mr. President, what “manufactured…murder weapon” are Peltier and the LPDOC talking about?
(Please see, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise and the Eighth Circuit decision http://www.noparolepeltier.com/court.html)
5) “The number of constitutional violations in this case is simply staggering.”
The “staggering” number of constitutional violations in the Peltier case is an astounding “zero.” Not once has any aspect of Peltier’s conviction or sentence been overturned as it wound its way through well over a dozen courts and the U.S. Supreme Court, twice. That’s the reality, that’s the truth, and that’s where the folklore dies.
Over 5000 souls signed a petition to implore the President to consider clemency, yet the petition itself is one continuous fabrication (a polite way of saying they are lying to all those folks, and the President).
All those signatories must, by necessity, fall into a number of groups: There are those who are ignorant of the facts; those who understand but ignore the facts or simply just don’t care; those who, because Peltier is an Indian believe he is only in prison because the government had to convict someone for killing their agents; or those who like trendy causes…although this one is getting a bit stale.
Whether its 5,000 or 50,000 signatures, the President will base his decision on the facts, and those facts, along with Peltier changing his version of what happened that day or other alibis (we can’t ignore the lie of Mr. X) and his own incriminating statements, clearly demonstrate that Peltier is exactly where he belongs and where he should remain.
Many inmates may be envious of Peltier’s celebrity for one reason only; it helps the prison time pass a little easier. Peltier is more than willing to continue this scam (not even addressing the alleged and anemic charitable activities and suspicious fundraising) as his supporters forget, or didn’t know, that Peltier came very late to the “cause,” but is now milking it for all it’s worth.
Peltier is a charlatan of the worst kind who has corrupted and hijacked an otherwise proud Native American history and tradition; as an alleged warrior, he is an embarrassment to that storied past.
When, or if, Peltier’s clemency application crosses the President’s desk, it will be denied in short order, because, beyond the folklore, the facts of Peltier’s guilt are clearly evident. Peltier is a remorseless killer and should serve the remainder of his sentences and be shown as much mercy as he did to Jack Coler and Ron Williams. And the President will understand that.
Please see “Dear President Obama” http://www.noparolepeltier.com/obama.pdf
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
* We have been beating the theme of the Peltier Folklore and Myth like a cheap toy drum for over a decade, and to some it may be wearisome. But as long as Peltier continues to fabricate and lie about what happened at Jumping Bull and try to convince people that somehow he’s a real warrior and his actions were somehow noble, then we must keep pointing out the obvious; that all this does is create a folklore following and perpetuate a Myth that is far removed from the facts. The above petition for clemency is just another in a very long line of examples.
In another effort to perpetuate the Peltier myth*, the LPDOC urged followers to sign an online clemency petition to President Obama. The LPDOC still hasn’t realized this is not a popularity contest and prove they are not reluctant to offer falsehoods even to the President of the United States; for example:
1) “10th Circuit Court of Appeals: …Much of the government’s behavior…and its prosecution of Leonard Peltier is to be condemned. The government withheld evidence. It intimidated witnesses. These facts are not disputed.”
What the President will understand is that although this particular court is entitled to its opinion, it had nothing to do with the facts surrounding Peltier’s conviction for the murders of Agents Coler and Williams, but a Habeas Corpus appeal relating to a decision by the parole board.
What’s more compelling though, is what preceded this statement as the court denied Peltier’s appeal:
"Previous federal court decisions provided the (Parole) Commission with ample facts to support its conviction that Peltier personally shot Agent Coler and Williams." And further, "While Mr. Peltier, asserts 'the Commission identified no plausible evidence that [he] shot the agents after they were incapacitated,' this statement is simply not true. The evidence linking Mr. Peltier to these crimes is enumerated above. The most damning evidence, the .223 shell casing found in Agent Coler's trunk, may be more equivocal after the surfacing of the October 2nd teletype, but it has not been 'ruled out,' as Mr. Peltier contends. There is no direct evidence that Mr. Peltier shot the agents because no one testified they saw him pull the trigger. But as we stated above, and restate here, the body of circumstantial evidence underlying the Commission's decision is sufficient for the purpose of rational basis review."
(Please see a review and the complete decision on the NPPA website here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/tenth_circuit.html)
2) “While others were acquitted on grounds of self defense, Peltier was convicted in connection with the 1975 shooting deaths of two FBI agents.”
“Self defense?”
Mr. President, please imagine this scene:
Two dead FBI agents laying on the ground—with their faces blown off—and while Peltier and others ransack their vehicles and possessions Peltier says, “I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.” “I didn’t think nothing about it at the time; all I could think of was, We got to get out of here.” (Matthiessen, ITSOCH, p.532). That Joe, was Joe Stuntz, wearing the dead agent’s FBI jacket; Stuntz was killed later that day while shooting at responding agents and officers. Also, one of those who was there (Robert Robideau) and literally got away with murder, later wrote in an email to this writer: “…they died like worms.” “They were shot in the head at close range.” During his escape from Pine Ridge, as accounted in later trials, Peltier described the scene, as “…the m------ f----- was begging for his life, but I shot him anyway.” (Referring to Agent Williams who had defensive wounds as well.) Or, as late as February 6, 2010 in a public statement, Peltier said, “I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do.”
Yes, Mr. President, he said it was the right thing to do…
(Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#self
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#finished, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#confession)
3) “Evidence shows that prosecutors knowingly presented false statements to a Canadian court to extradite Peltier…”
Well, that’s not quite the case—no pun intended—and the proof comes not from Peltier nor the NPPA but the Canadian Government. It should come as no surprise that an October 12, 1999 letter to then U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno from the Canadian Minister of Justice stated, “I have concluded that Mr. Peltier was lawfully extradited to the United States.”
(Please see the entire letter here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/canadaletter.html)
4) “…and manufactured the murder weapon (the gun and shell casings entered into evidence didn't match; this fact was hidden from the jury).”
Again, that’s not quite how the President will see it. The October 2, 1975 teletype (referenced above) was not required to be turned over to the defense during the discovery process (Brady material) but was later obtained by Peltier through the Freedom of Information Act. He appealed and this led to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals directing the district court to conduct an evidentiary (ballistics) hearing, which it did in October 1984. Of course, the LPDOC fails to mention this three-day evidentiary hearing or the fact that Peltier “…had an independent firearms expert present in the courtroom at the hearing, but he was not called to testify.” Peltier appealed that decision again and the Eighth Circuit Court concluded, “When all is said and done, however, a few simple but very important facts remain. The casing introduced into evidence had in fact been extracted from the Wichita AR-15. This point was not disputed; although the defense had its own ballistics expert, it offered no contrary evidence.”
So, Mr. President, what “manufactured…murder weapon” are Peltier and the LPDOC talking about?
(Please see, http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise and the Eighth Circuit decision http://www.noparolepeltier.com/court.html)
5) “The number of constitutional violations in this case is simply staggering.”
The “staggering” number of constitutional violations in the Peltier case is an astounding “zero.” Not once has any aspect of Peltier’s conviction or sentence been overturned as it wound its way through well over a dozen courts and the U.S. Supreme Court, twice. That’s the reality, that’s the truth, and that’s where the folklore dies.
Over 5000 souls signed a petition to implore the President to consider clemency, yet the petition itself is one continuous fabrication (a polite way of saying they are lying to all those folks, and the President).
All those signatories must, by necessity, fall into a number of groups: There are those who are ignorant of the facts; those who understand but ignore the facts or simply just don’t care; those who, because Peltier is an Indian believe he is only in prison because the government had to convict someone for killing their agents; or those who like trendy causes…although this one is getting a bit stale.
Whether its 5,000 or 50,000 signatures, the President will base his decision on the facts, and those facts, along with Peltier changing his version of what happened that day or other alibis (we can’t ignore the lie of Mr. X) and his own incriminating statements, clearly demonstrate that Peltier is exactly where he belongs and where he should remain.
Many inmates may be envious of Peltier’s celebrity for one reason only; it helps the prison time pass a little easier. Peltier is more than willing to continue this scam (not even addressing the alleged and anemic charitable activities and suspicious fundraising) as his supporters forget, or didn’t know, that Peltier came very late to the “cause,” but is now milking it for all it’s worth.
Peltier is a charlatan of the worst kind who has corrupted and hijacked an otherwise proud Native American history and tradition; as an alleged warrior, he is an embarrassment to that storied past.
When, or if, Peltier’s clemency application crosses the President’s desk, it will be denied in short order, because, beyond the folklore, the facts of Peltier’s guilt are clearly evident. Peltier is a remorseless killer and should serve the remainder of his sentences and be shown as much mercy as he did to Jack Coler and Ron Williams. And the President will understand that.
Please see “Dear President Obama” http://www.noparolepeltier.com/obama.pdf
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
* We have been beating the theme of the Peltier Folklore and Myth like a cheap toy drum for over a decade, and to some it may be wearisome. But as long as Peltier continues to fabricate and lie about what happened at Jumping Bull and try to convince people that somehow he’s a real warrior and his actions were somehow noble, then we must keep pointing out the obvious; that all this does is create a folklore following and perpetuate a Myth that is far removed from the facts. The above petition for clemency is just another in a very long line of examples.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
PELTIER'S $1,000 DONATION...
On September 26th, in an impassioned, if somewhat pathetic plea, the LPDOC laid out their dire financial straits. “We need money, envelopes, paper, donations of any size, sponsor a delegate, make a monthly pledge,” they say in effect. In other words, they’re broke. At least, thank goodness they didn’t go down the “tax-deductible donations” road this time…perhaps they have learned a valuable lesson from the IRS…but no one at the LPDOC will admit to that. And it’s no wonder that this “grassroots organization” (and all the while we thought it was an International effort—Elsie are you still out there?), is dying on the vine. Over the past several years at least Native America and intelligent supporters are seeing through the fog of Peltier folklore.
This begging is nothing new and has been addressed by the NPPA too many times already with a major review going back to May, 2004 (please see Editorial Essay #24; Peltier Donations: Scam, Fraud?, in the NPPA Debate Continues Section).
That essay repeated a statement from one of the LPDC’s (predecessor of the LPDOC) leaders, Bob Free that;
“Transparency regarding accounting and donations will be posted on the web.”
Two points; it was obviously a problem within the organization, and of course, that never happened. Too many financial skeletons in the closet perhaps?
But we’ll up the ante from a previous offer (please see NPPA Blog dated September 6, 2010 below). The NPPA will donate $1,000 (up from the prior offer of $500) to Peltier and the LPDOC if they honor a commitment made to their supporters years ago:
Post on whoisleonardpeltier.info the following:
Peltier’s last five years (2006-2010) federal and state tax returns, and the federal and state tax returns for the LPDC (2005-2008) and the LPDOC’s returns for 2009 and 2010.
That’s all they have to do and a check for a grand will be in the mail. Promise.
But we know this is more than just problematic for Leonard and the Committee…what they don’t want supporters (either the die-hards or the well-healed) to know, is how much has been taken in, or more importantly, where has it gone?
As an aside, the September 26th message also stated “Leonard’s recent transfer to USP-Coleman in Florida has created sudden and unexpected increases in the cost of attorney travel.” Which is interesting, and silly, because, as we’ve understood over the years, the attorney’s working on Peltier’s behalf have done so, pro bono. And there is no reason for any attorney to travel to Coleman to speak with Peltier anyway (unless it’s just to meet the legend), because anything they would contrive as an issue is all a matter of record. Even pursing the FOIPA material can be handled from an attorney’s office and not Peltier’s prison cell. Besides, there’s still the U.S. Mail.
But let’s not stray too far from the fundamentals, from Peltier’s actual guilt and total lack of remorse for what happened at Jumping Bull, or even acceptance of any responsibility for that day.
The two most important sentences for Peltier supporters and detractors alike to contemplate over the past thirty-six years still remain;
“I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and I looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.”
(Of course that was the dead agent’s jacket Joe Stuntz was wearing when he was shot while shooting at responding agents and officers later that day. Please see Editorial Essay #54) Write Leonard and ask him to explain that one. And,
“I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do.”
(Please see Editorial Essay #52) It was “The right thing to do?” Instead of Leonard, write the President to demonstrate Peltier’s attitude towards his crimes and that he is not deserving of the slightest consideration for clemency.
Add to that the decade’s long lie that “Mr. X.” did it; if there’s any doubt about that, just watch the movie (http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html).
And then there’s what the jury had to consider; distilling down all the other evidence to that core testimony each juror needed to weigh truthfulness, and the degree of Peltier’s guilt or innocence. Those “Critical Witnesses,” taken as a whole, left little doubt then, as they do now. (Please see Editorial Essay #55.)
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
NPPA
This begging is nothing new and has been addressed by the NPPA too many times already with a major review going back to May, 2004 (please see Editorial Essay #24; Peltier Donations: Scam, Fraud?, in the NPPA Debate Continues Section).
That essay repeated a statement from one of the LPDC’s (predecessor of the LPDOC) leaders, Bob Free that;
“Transparency regarding accounting and donations will be posted on the web.”
Two points; it was obviously a problem within the organization, and of course, that never happened. Too many financial skeletons in the closet perhaps?
But we’ll up the ante from a previous offer (please see NPPA Blog dated September 6, 2010 below). The NPPA will donate $1,000 (up from the prior offer of $500) to Peltier and the LPDOC if they honor a commitment made to their supporters years ago:
Post on whoisleonardpeltier.info the following:
Peltier’s last five years (2006-2010) federal and state tax returns, and the federal and state tax returns for the LPDC (2005-2008) and the LPDOC’s returns for 2009 and 2010.
That’s all they have to do and a check for a grand will be in the mail. Promise.
But we know this is more than just problematic for Leonard and the Committee…what they don’t want supporters (either the die-hards or the well-healed) to know, is how much has been taken in, or more importantly, where has it gone?
As an aside, the September 26th message also stated “Leonard’s recent transfer to USP-Coleman in Florida has created sudden and unexpected increases in the cost of attorney travel.” Which is interesting, and silly, because, as we’ve understood over the years, the attorney’s working on Peltier’s behalf have done so, pro bono. And there is no reason for any attorney to travel to Coleman to speak with Peltier anyway (unless it’s just to meet the legend), because anything they would contrive as an issue is all a matter of record. Even pursing the FOIPA material can be handled from an attorney’s office and not Peltier’s prison cell. Besides, there’s still the U.S. Mail.
But let’s not stray too far from the fundamentals, from Peltier’s actual guilt and total lack of remorse for what happened at Jumping Bull, or even acceptance of any responsibility for that day.
The two most important sentences for Peltier supporters and detractors alike to contemplate over the past thirty-six years still remain;
“I seen Joe when he pulled it out of the trunk and I looked at him when he put it on, and he gave me a smile.”
(Of course that was the dead agent’s jacket Joe Stuntz was wearing when he was shot while shooting at responding agents and officers later that day. Please see Editorial Essay #54) Write Leonard and ask him to explain that one. And,
“I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do.”
(Please see Editorial Essay #52) It was “The right thing to do?” Instead of Leonard, write the President to demonstrate Peltier’s attitude towards his crimes and that he is not deserving of the slightest consideration for clemency.
Add to that the decade’s long lie that “Mr. X.” did it; if there’s any doubt about that, just watch the movie (http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html).
And then there’s what the jury had to consider; distilling down all the other evidence to that core testimony each juror needed to weigh truthfulness, and the degree of Peltier’s guilt or innocence. Those “Critical Witnesses,” taken as a whole, left little doubt then, as they do now. (Please see Editorial Essay #55.)
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
NPPA
Thursday, September 22, 2011
PELTIER ESCAPES!
Well, from the “Big House” anyway; the fabled and historic Lewisburg Penitentiary.
After a stint in this Pennsylvania facility Peltier was transported, probably via Con Air (and by way of Oklahoma City) to his new residence, the maximum security prison in Coleman, Florida.
It is here that Peltier will continue his consecutive life sentences, plus the additional seven consecutive years for his armed escape from Lompoc.
What isn’t clear from the LPDOC is whether Peltier’s June “shots” (see NPPA Blog, 8/28/11) for prison violations, that landed him in the hole for six months, will continue at Coleman or if the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) will cut him a little slack and allow him to return to general population.
We’ll have to see how long it takes before Peltier starts making demands about having his own room (see NPPA Blog 4/3/11), and the extra attention he demands as a “political prisoner.”
The LPDOC continues to encourage Peltier supporters to contact the new BOP Acting Director, Dr. Kane, and demanding that the “only acceptable transfer is one to a medium security facility in close proximity to (within a 500-mile radius) of his family and Nation. Ideally, Leonard should be moved to the medium security facility at Oxford, WI.”
So, the demands continue as if Peltier is entitled to special treatment, but it would be interesting to see exactly how many letters or phone calls Dr. Kane’s office actually receives. Contrary to the folklore of worldwide support for Peltier, the numbers are probably very small.
Also, adhering to the old saw that you’re judged by the company you keep, the LPDOC blog calls for “Free Leonard Peltier and Jeral Wayne Williams (Mutulu Shakur)” with what can only be described as a lame attempt at a flutish, tinny sounding semi-rap song. But it’s good that Peltier proffers his support for the former BLA and RNA member convicted of a Brinks robbery and the murder of a guard and two police officers. Williams’ possible release date is supposedly 2/10/16, which will predate Leonard’s next parole hearing by about eight years. Peltier has also voiced his support and camaraderie for the likes of Wesley Cook (Mumia Abu Jamal) and Timothy McVeigh. (Please see Editorial Essays:
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#10
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#standing
Peltier has been consistent in this regard; he knows a similar character when he sees one.
Perhaps Peltier wants to be the most infamous of the inmates at Coleman…we’ll have to see just how far he gets with that.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
After a stint in this Pennsylvania facility Peltier was transported, probably via Con Air (and by way of Oklahoma City) to his new residence, the maximum security prison in Coleman, Florida.
It is here that Peltier will continue his consecutive life sentences, plus the additional seven consecutive years for his armed escape from Lompoc.
What isn’t clear from the LPDOC is whether Peltier’s June “shots” (see NPPA Blog, 8/28/11) for prison violations, that landed him in the hole for six months, will continue at Coleman or if the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) will cut him a little slack and allow him to return to general population.
We’ll have to see how long it takes before Peltier starts making demands about having his own room (see NPPA Blog 4/3/11), and the extra attention he demands as a “political prisoner.”
The LPDOC continues to encourage Peltier supporters to contact the new BOP Acting Director, Dr. Kane, and demanding that the “only acceptable transfer is one to a medium security facility in close proximity to (within a 500-mile radius) of his family and Nation. Ideally, Leonard should be moved to the medium security facility at Oxford, WI.”
So, the demands continue as if Peltier is entitled to special treatment, but it would be interesting to see exactly how many letters or phone calls Dr. Kane’s office actually receives. Contrary to the folklore of worldwide support for Peltier, the numbers are probably very small.
Also, adhering to the old saw that you’re judged by the company you keep, the LPDOC blog calls for “Free Leonard Peltier and Jeral Wayne Williams (Mutulu Shakur)” with what can only be described as a lame attempt at a flutish, tinny sounding semi-rap song. But it’s good that Peltier proffers his support for the former BLA and RNA member convicted of a Brinks robbery and the murder of a guard and two police officers. Williams’ possible release date is supposedly 2/10/16, which will predate Leonard’s next parole hearing by about eight years. Peltier has also voiced his support and camaraderie for the likes of Wesley Cook (Mumia Abu Jamal) and Timothy McVeigh. (Please see Editorial Essays:
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#10
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#standing
Peltier has been consistent in this regard; he knows a similar character when he sees one.
Perhaps Peltier wants to be the most infamous of the inmates at Coleman…we’ll have to see just how far he gets with that.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Saturday, September 10, 2011
BULLET POINTS...PELTIER
From recent Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee infograms:
Happy Birthday: As Peltier reaches his 67th birthday, now approaching the septuagenarian level, apparently he will be celebrating this one in the “hole” at Lewisburg for his recent “shots” violating prison rules (please see previous Blog). Certainly celebrating one’s birthday in solitary confinement is no picnic, but placing this in its proper perspective, Jack Coler and Ron Williams never had the opportunity to even celebrate their 29th and 28th birthday’s respectively, thanks to Peltier and his AIM cowards at Jumping Bull on June 26, 1975.
Benedetti Prize: A group created in 2009 selected Peltier for a “human rights prize.” Perhaps they could also select those Peltier and his Committee have honored in the past as well, Wesley Cook (aka Mumia), and Timothy McVeigh (please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#10). Recognizing that using Peltier and Peace in the same sentence is an oxymoron, this effort is as meaningless as Peltier being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize (please see
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#standing)
Powerful Video: Really? Former BOP corrections officer Bruce Smith proves that Peltier supporters have a difficult time getting their facts straight. (Please see NPPA Blog 8/28/11)
Disciplinary Transfer: The only inmate in the Federal Bureau of Prisons who thinks he’s entitled to dictate the terms of his confinement is Leonard Peltier. (Well, not really, there are probably a few others.) But Peltier and the Committee are “demanding” (while they suggest hounding the newly appointed BOP Acting Director…which, of course, is always going to endear themselves within the system—Peltier and the Committee just haven’t figured out how to approach these matters yet—no surprise there), that he be transferred “to a medium security facility in close proximity to Leonard’s family and Nation.” However, here’s another thought: the “Powerful Video” mentioned several times the extreme high temperatures of Peltier’s confinement at Lewisburg, so, in order to remove that concern maybe the BOP could consider another facility where high temperatures would not be a problem: FCI Ray Brook. Ray Brook is in the Northeast corner of upstate New York and a stone’s throw from the Canadian border. Excessive heat shouldn’t be a problem there.
We the People: Regards petitions announced by the White House on its website. Here’s one: Convicted felons who have had their convictions dissected thirty or more times in various courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, twice, should serve out their complete sentences. And in Peltier’s case the additional seven consecutive years for his armed escape from Lompoc…just in case anyone (meaning Peltier and the Committee), forgot that little detail. Finding 5,000 people to sign that petition wouldn’t be much of a chore…but pestering the White House would not be appropriate in the Peltier case.
Clemency: Not a chance here. The President, a Harvard educated lawyer, and someone who has promoted a pro-law enforcement agenda, would easily recognize the facts surrounding Peltier’s conviction, and how many times Peltier has changed his version of the facts (let’s not forget Mr. X as well), and understand that Peltier does not deserve any compassion for his crimes. (Please see “Dear President Obama” on the NPPA home page http://www.noparolepeltier.com/index.html)
Walk for Human Rights: “The walk will depart from Alcatraz Island…” Of course they presumably mean to walk to the boat to take them to the mainland to continue their demonstration. Although this once barren 22-acre outcropping in San Francisco Bay, named in 1775 by a Spanish explorer, has served as a military outpost, a fort, military prison, federal prison and finally a national park, means many things to many people, depending certainly on one’s perspective. Former inmates and convicted felons reminisce the historical significance of places like Leavenworth…Peltier’s long time residence; Alcatraz, the Rock, or Lewisburg, The Big House. For many Native Americans, however, it marked one of the seminal moments in a search for full equality and identity and arguably central to the beginning of the native rights movement. However, during the 1969 takeover, which included many non-natives as well, they pretty much trashed the place. Hopefully this demonstration will be orderly and peaceful as they attempt to hawk the Peltier mythology and folklore.
Labor with Labor: A catchy phrase with a misguided goal. Unions are about job preservation in tough times and it will be surprising if any union gives the Peltier issue a second glance.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Happy Birthday: As Peltier reaches his 67th birthday, now approaching the septuagenarian level, apparently he will be celebrating this one in the “hole” at Lewisburg for his recent “shots” violating prison rules (please see previous Blog). Certainly celebrating one’s birthday in solitary confinement is no picnic, but placing this in its proper perspective, Jack Coler and Ron Williams never had the opportunity to even celebrate their 29th and 28th birthday’s respectively, thanks to Peltier and his AIM cowards at Jumping Bull on June 26, 1975.
Benedetti Prize: A group created in 2009 selected Peltier for a “human rights prize.” Perhaps they could also select those Peltier and his Committee have honored in the past as well, Wesley Cook (aka Mumia), and Timothy McVeigh (please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#10). Recognizing that using Peltier and Peace in the same sentence is an oxymoron, this effort is as meaningless as Peltier being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize (please see
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#standing)
Powerful Video: Really? Former BOP corrections officer Bruce Smith proves that Peltier supporters have a difficult time getting their facts straight. (Please see NPPA Blog 8/28/11)
Disciplinary Transfer: The only inmate in the Federal Bureau of Prisons who thinks he’s entitled to dictate the terms of his confinement is Leonard Peltier. (Well, not really, there are probably a few others.) But Peltier and the Committee are “demanding” (while they suggest hounding the newly appointed BOP Acting Director…which, of course, is always going to endear themselves within the system—Peltier and the Committee just haven’t figured out how to approach these matters yet—no surprise there), that he be transferred “to a medium security facility in close proximity to Leonard’s family and Nation.” However, here’s another thought: the “Powerful Video” mentioned several times the extreme high temperatures of Peltier’s confinement at Lewisburg, so, in order to remove that concern maybe the BOP could consider another facility where high temperatures would not be a problem: FCI Ray Brook. Ray Brook is in the Northeast corner of upstate New York and a stone’s throw from the Canadian border. Excessive heat shouldn’t be a problem there.
We the People: Regards petitions announced by the White House on its website. Here’s one: Convicted felons who have had their convictions dissected thirty or more times in various courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, twice, should serve out their complete sentences. And in Peltier’s case the additional seven consecutive years for his armed escape from Lompoc…just in case anyone (meaning Peltier and the Committee), forgot that little detail. Finding 5,000 people to sign that petition wouldn’t be much of a chore…but pestering the White House would not be appropriate in the Peltier case.
Clemency: Not a chance here. The President, a Harvard educated lawyer, and someone who has promoted a pro-law enforcement agenda, would easily recognize the facts surrounding Peltier’s conviction, and how many times Peltier has changed his version of the facts (let’s not forget Mr. X as well), and understand that Peltier does not deserve any compassion for his crimes. (Please see “Dear President Obama” on the NPPA home page http://www.noparolepeltier.com/index.html)
Walk for Human Rights: “The walk will depart from Alcatraz Island…” Of course they presumably mean to walk to the boat to take them to the mainland to continue their demonstration. Although this once barren 22-acre outcropping in San Francisco Bay, named in 1775 by a Spanish explorer, has served as a military outpost, a fort, military prison, federal prison and finally a national park, means many things to many people, depending certainly on one’s perspective. Former inmates and convicted felons reminisce the historical significance of places like Leavenworth…Peltier’s long time residence; Alcatraz, the Rock, or Lewisburg, The Big House. For many Native Americans, however, it marked one of the seminal moments in a search for full equality and identity and arguably central to the beginning of the native rights movement. However, during the 1969 takeover, which included many non-natives as well, they pretty much trashed the place. Hopefully this demonstration will be orderly and peaceful as they attempt to hawk the Peltier mythology and folklore.
Labor with Labor: A catchy phrase with a misguided goal. Unions are about job preservation in tough times and it will be surprising if any union gives the Peltier issue a second glance.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Sunday, August 28, 2011
PELTIER "SHOT" IN PRISON...Bruce Smith
PELTIER “SHOT” IN PRISON…Bruce Smith
In a recent brief online video (http://vimeo.com/27422654) the narrator begins with the typical and tired Peltier folklore that we’ve been hearing for decades (none of which is worth repeating here), then goes on to pass along more Peltier fabrications.
The focus of the piece is Bruce Smith who introduces himself as a former U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP) corrections officer between 1982 and 2003 at Leavenworth Penitentiary.
Bruce Smith describes, and the narrator clarifies, two “shots” (prison term for an inmate’s violation of prison rules) received by Peltier on 6/27/11 that landed him in solitary confinement for six months. Six months in the “hole” is pretty serious by all accounts.
Smith begins by claiming that the FBI “calls all the shots,” and is the “ultimate authority” within the BOP. This is a ridiculous conclusion that cannot be supported whether Smith spent twenty-one years at Leavenworth, or not. Although the BOP is part of the Department of Justice (as is the FBI), an FBI agent (or two) from a nearby FBI office is assigned to the institution to investigate crimes by and against inmates and personnel. Other than presenting the results of those investigations to the appropriate United States Attorney’s office, they have no control or authority in the prisons.
Smith and the narrator describe the two violations, possession of currency (a 20-pound Scottish note) and an assault on a guard. The video briefly displays two prison incident reports.
Although the video only shows excerpts of two written reports, it was encouraging to find both documents on the LPDOC website…so we can get to the actual facts and truth of these incidents.
Smith describes the “bogus” shot of possessing money because Peltier’s mail would routinely be processed from the mailroom to “SIS.” According to Smith, the intelligence unit reviews the mail before being sent to the inmate. Which is a true statement.
However, the actual report from Officer Wagner reveals that Peltier was sending a letter to someone that included a 20-Pound Scottish currency bill and that, “In the enclosed letter, inmate Peltier admits to receiving the bank note in the mail.”
So, if Bruce Smith is correct and SIS allowed the currency to get to Peltier and then Peltier was given a “shot,” or punished, for possessing currency, then that would be troubling. However…that’s assuming—of course—that Peltier is even telling the truth in his letter about how he got the Scottish note in the first place. Peltier telling the truth has always been a problem and assessing his truthfulness would be like trying to measure the immeasurable with a rubber ruler. Just ask him about Mr. X.
Smith, and the narrator, then criticize another officer for touching “wires leading to a light fixture,” describing “bare wires on a light fixture,” and according to retired corrections officer Bruce Smith, his fellow officer was “not smart enough to realize that two bare wires will shock you,” and that the officer himself should get the “shot” (punishment) instead of Peltier.
Well, that’s not quite what happened. Officer Hamilton’s report stated, “The wires were located on the wall above the corner post of the upper bunk. I attempted to pull the wires out of the wall. Due to my correctional experience in the past I have witnessed inmates conceal contraband in the wall of a cell and attach a wire, or string to the contraband. This is so the item may be retrieved at a later time.” Then, while attempting to pull the wires from the wall, Officer Hamilton received an electric shock.
Smith and the narrator pointed out that another inmate had been removed from Peltier’s cell two weeks before. Assuming that was the case, and if Peltier is innocent of rigging the wires to the light fixture in the first place…then why, when his cellmate left, didn’t he point out the dangerous wires to prison authorities? He would have then been viewed as cooperating with prison rules and looking out for the officer’s safety. But then being a good-guy and doing the right thing has never been a Peltier virtue…that is, to anyone but himself and his own selfish and egotistical perceptions and self-importance.
So, are we to assume that for those two weeks in that small cell he didn’t see the wires at all, or know that his cellmate may have previously rigged them? It would be hard to miss. But then again, now, Bruce Smith, the narrator and the LPDOC have more folklore to twist around the Peltier myth. And that’s what they like to do, and right now, that’s just about all they have left.
Or, lets consider another likelihood. Peltier, after his roommate departed, rigged the wires himself to deliberately create a circumstance where he can pretend he’s being singled out by prison authorities. (The date itself is hardly insignificant. Had this happened the day prior it would have been on the 36th anniversary of the murder of two FBI agents at Pine Ridge and given Peltier even more cause to claim he was being singled out for harsh treatment.) This is not beyond the realm of possibilities because there have been a number of incidents were Peltier always claimed that he’s the victim. Peltier’s undeserved popularity has long since waned, so anything that can bring attention to him (for Peltier and the LPDOC), is helpful in their minds. Peltier loves playing the victim card.
Former corrections officer Bruce Smith talks of Peltier with an affectionate reverence, referring to him almost like a dear old friend and claims that these recent incidents are deliberate and part of a governmental plot to force this poor old, infirmed inmate into health failure, even death. “They want him to die,” Smith says.
Actually, Lewisburg officials would be content if Peltier would just follow the simple rules and not create administrative problems they constantly have to deal with. But Peltier has always made a habit of placing demands on the system by claiming a special status.
Bruce Smith adds that his father and grandfather would have been proud to see him speaking up on Leonard’s behalf. But would they? And as we are now asking…What took you so long, Bruce? You were in the BOP, in the system for 21 years, you’ve been retired for 8 years. How many times did you go on record to support the claims you now make? None would be a first guess. So now if you want your 15 minutes (actually 8 minutes and 50 seconds) of fame, or shame, you’re adding nothing to the Peltier cause. Where was Bruce Smith when Peltier has been in solitary previously, or during the fuss raised when he was transferred from Leavenworth?
Fact is that no one, especially within the Native American communities, really cares about Peltier at this point…the vast majority have seen that he and the American Indian Movement added nothing positive to Native American culture.
One last thing, Bruce Smith never mentioned why Peltier is serving consecutive life sentences (plus another seven consecutive years for his “armed” escape from Lompoc), so we will…
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
In a recent brief online video (http://vimeo.com/27422654) the narrator begins with the typical and tired Peltier folklore that we’ve been hearing for decades (none of which is worth repeating here), then goes on to pass along more Peltier fabrications.
The focus of the piece is Bruce Smith who introduces himself as a former U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP) corrections officer between 1982 and 2003 at Leavenworth Penitentiary.
Bruce Smith describes, and the narrator clarifies, two “shots” (prison term for an inmate’s violation of prison rules) received by Peltier on 6/27/11 that landed him in solitary confinement for six months. Six months in the “hole” is pretty serious by all accounts.
Smith begins by claiming that the FBI “calls all the shots,” and is the “ultimate authority” within the BOP. This is a ridiculous conclusion that cannot be supported whether Smith spent twenty-one years at Leavenworth, or not. Although the BOP is part of the Department of Justice (as is the FBI), an FBI agent (or two) from a nearby FBI office is assigned to the institution to investigate crimes by and against inmates and personnel. Other than presenting the results of those investigations to the appropriate United States Attorney’s office, they have no control or authority in the prisons.
Smith and the narrator describe the two violations, possession of currency (a 20-pound Scottish note) and an assault on a guard. The video briefly displays two prison incident reports.
Although the video only shows excerpts of two written reports, it was encouraging to find both documents on the LPDOC website…so we can get to the actual facts and truth of these incidents.
Smith describes the “bogus” shot of possessing money because Peltier’s mail would routinely be processed from the mailroom to “SIS.” According to Smith, the intelligence unit reviews the mail before being sent to the inmate. Which is a true statement.
However, the actual report from Officer Wagner reveals that Peltier was sending a letter to someone that included a 20-Pound Scottish currency bill and that, “In the enclosed letter, inmate Peltier admits to receiving the bank note in the mail.”
So, if Bruce Smith is correct and SIS allowed the currency to get to Peltier and then Peltier was given a “shot,” or punished, for possessing currency, then that would be troubling. However…that’s assuming—of course—that Peltier is even telling the truth in his letter about how he got the Scottish note in the first place. Peltier telling the truth has always been a problem and assessing his truthfulness would be like trying to measure the immeasurable with a rubber ruler. Just ask him about Mr. X.
Smith, and the narrator, then criticize another officer for touching “wires leading to a light fixture,” describing “bare wires on a light fixture,” and according to retired corrections officer Bruce Smith, his fellow officer was “not smart enough to realize that two bare wires will shock you,” and that the officer himself should get the “shot” (punishment) instead of Peltier.
Well, that’s not quite what happened. Officer Hamilton’s report stated, “The wires were located on the wall above the corner post of the upper bunk. I attempted to pull the wires out of the wall. Due to my correctional experience in the past I have witnessed inmates conceal contraband in the wall of a cell and attach a wire, or string to the contraband. This is so the item may be retrieved at a later time.” Then, while attempting to pull the wires from the wall, Officer Hamilton received an electric shock.
Smith and the narrator pointed out that another inmate had been removed from Peltier’s cell two weeks before. Assuming that was the case, and if Peltier is innocent of rigging the wires to the light fixture in the first place…then why, when his cellmate left, didn’t he point out the dangerous wires to prison authorities? He would have then been viewed as cooperating with prison rules and looking out for the officer’s safety. But then being a good-guy and doing the right thing has never been a Peltier virtue…that is, to anyone but himself and his own selfish and egotistical perceptions and self-importance.
So, are we to assume that for those two weeks in that small cell he didn’t see the wires at all, or know that his cellmate may have previously rigged them? It would be hard to miss. But then again, now, Bruce Smith, the narrator and the LPDOC have more folklore to twist around the Peltier myth. And that’s what they like to do, and right now, that’s just about all they have left.
Or, lets consider another likelihood. Peltier, after his roommate departed, rigged the wires himself to deliberately create a circumstance where he can pretend he’s being singled out by prison authorities. (The date itself is hardly insignificant. Had this happened the day prior it would have been on the 36th anniversary of the murder of two FBI agents at Pine Ridge and given Peltier even more cause to claim he was being singled out for harsh treatment.) This is not beyond the realm of possibilities because there have been a number of incidents were Peltier always claimed that he’s the victim. Peltier’s undeserved popularity has long since waned, so anything that can bring attention to him (for Peltier and the LPDOC), is helpful in their minds. Peltier loves playing the victim card.
Former corrections officer Bruce Smith talks of Peltier with an affectionate reverence, referring to him almost like a dear old friend and claims that these recent incidents are deliberate and part of a governmental plot to force this poor old, infirmed inmate into health failure, even death. “They want him to die,” Smith says.
Actually, Lewisburg officials would be content if Peltier would just follow the simple rules and not create administrative problems they constantly have to deal with. But Peltier has always made a habit of placing demands on the system by claiming a special status.
Bruce Smith adds that his father and grandfather would have been proud to see him speaking up on Leonard’s behalf. But would they? And as we are now asking…What took you so long, Bruce? You were in the BOP, in the system for 21 years, you’ve been retired for 8 years. How many times did you go on record to support the claims you now make? None would be a first guess. So now if you want your 15 minutes (actually 8 minutes and 50 seconds) of fame, or shame, you’re adding nothing to the Peltier cause. Where was Bruce Smith when Peltier has been in solitary previously, or during the fuss raised when he was transferred from Leavenworth?
Fact is that no one, especially within the Native American communities, really cares about Peltier at this point…the vast majority have seen that he and the American Indian Movement added nothing positive to Native American culture.
One last thing, Bruce Smith never mentioned why Peltier is serving consecutive life sentences (plus another seven consecutive years for his “armed” escape from Lompoc), so we will…
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Ron Williams: July 30, 1947 – June 26, 1975 R.I.P.
Dear NPPA Supporters:
Ron would have celebrated his 64th birthday.
He would have been retired by now, perhaps pursuing a second career like many of us, or maybe enjoying his life with sports, hobbies, travel, and probably spoiling the heck out of his grandchildren, as most of us certainly do.
But none of that happened because of a chance encounter crossing paths with a host of American Indian Movement (AIM) cowards at Jumping Bull on Pine Ridge in the summer of ’75.
Peltier at the moment is complaining because he, again, couldn’t follow the rules and wound up in the hole for six months.
For that one time each day that he’s allowed an hour outside his cell and into the sunlight, perhaps Ron in looking down.
Ron, from what I’ve learned about him, probably would be benevolent and show Peltier and the others mercy.
I personally wouldn’t be that kind.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire William’s family and all of Ron’s friends and Bureau associates.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
No Parole Peltier Association
Founder
April 30, 2000
Ron would have celebrated his 64th birthday.
He would have been retired by now, perhaps pursuing a second career like many of us, or maybe enjoying his life with sports, hobbies, travel, and probably spoiling the heck out of his grandchildren, as most of us certainly do.
But none of that happened because of a chance encounter crossing paths with a host of American Indian Movement (AIM) cowards at Jumping Bull on Pine Ridge in the summer of ’75.
Peltier at the moment is complaining because he, again, couldn’t follow the rules and wound up in the hole for six months.
For that one time each day that he’s allowed an hour outside his cell and into the sunlight, perhaps Ron in looking down.
Ron, from what I’ve learned about him, probably would be benevolent and show Peltier and the others mercy.
I personally wouldn’t be that kind.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire William’s family and all of Ron’s friends and Bureau associates.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
No Parole Peltier Association
Founder
April 30, 2000
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Leonard gets his own room...
Dear Supporters:
Not quite the room he was planning on, and the LPDOC, as expected, is blaming it on prison authorities…No way Leonard would do anything to violate prison rules. Right? Of course not…
It’s been a few months since the last NPPA post but there’s really been nothing notable to report. Peltier is slowing slipping into the ether as more people have come to realize his scam and lies have gone on long enough. The Myth is eroding and the shine coming off the folklore. Pretty soon he’ll be nothing more than a footnote in the sordid past of the American Indian Movement.
(Really, sometimes I do miss Bob Robideau…he was an endless source of material.)
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Not quite the room he was planning on, and the LPDOC, as expected, is blaming it on prison authorities…No way Leonard would do anything to violate prison rules. Right? Of course not…
It’s been a few months since the last NPPA post but there’s really been nothing notable to report. Peltier is slowing slipping into the ether as more people have come to realize his scam and lies have gone on long enough. The Myth is eroding and the shine coming off the folklore. Pretty soon he’ll be nothing more than a footnote in the sordid past of the American Indian Movement.
(Really, sometimes I do miss Bob Robideau…he was an endless source of material.)
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Peltier: I want my own room...
Dear Supporters:
One has to wonder, since the latest Peltier message was magically “launched into cyberspace by the Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee,” (unsigned as usual): What were they thinking? Did anyone at the LPDOC (Betty Ann, Vivian, Pamela, Jean, Dorothy, Gina [curious that they’re all female]) give a moment’s thought to have supporters badger the Bureau of Prisons with such a silly and stupid request?
(Since there hasn’t been any comment on Peltier’s test results from last month then perhaps he’s not facing cancer on top of everything else…which is a good thing. If he did have pressing or life-threatening health issues the BOP would move him to an appropriate medical facility. Lewisburg will do just fine for now…except for the accommodations apparently.)
Imagine the horror? “Yesterday (March 24th), another prisoner was moved into Leonard’s cell.”
Almost since day one Peltier has viewed himself as an exceptional case, an allegedly privileged character—a wrongfully convicted political prisoner—or so the folklore and myth would have us believe. I have no independent knowledge but would imagine that Peltier (in addition to his armed escape from Lompoc), has been pretty much of a pain-in-the-tail to prison authorities for years.
But what happened to Peltier the tough guy?
Peltier’s a tough guy when he and others are shooting at two agents pinned down in an open field; he’s the tough guy participating in cold blooded murder, blowing away the faces of two wounded human beings; he’s a tough guy when he sticks a gun in a woman’s mouth and threatens her life; he’s the tough guy when he steals government property and makes a run for it (well maybe not that tough as a thief and fleeing felon).
But now he’s a crybaby because he has a cellmate?
Even John Gotti, a real tough guy and once the nation’s most feared crime boss, who no doubt had a lot of respect and support from many fellow inmates, was the victim of prison violence (beaten bloody it was reported). But the Teflon Don, unlike Peltier, was a stand-up guy and told prison doctors that he, “fell down.”
Great plan from the LPDOC, have all those Peltier supporters complain to the BOP. The BOP will receive hundreds, maybe thousands, even hundreds of thousands of emails and phone calls. Right? No, not really, probably only a dozen or so. Reports of Peltier’s support are greatly exaggerated.
Here’s a solution: Peltier doesn’t want a roommate, especially one who hasn’t read or believes all the fairytales about him, or if he did, could care less…so give Peltier his own room (cell) in…solitary.
“In the spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
NPPA
One has to wonder, since the latest Peltier message was magically “launched into cyberspace by the Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee,” (unsigned as usual): What were they thinking? Did anyone at the LPDOC (Betty Ann, Vivian, Pamela, Jean, Dorothy, Gina [curious that they’re all female]) give a moment’s thought to have supporters badger the Bureau of Prisons with such a silly and stupid request?
(Since there hasn’t been any comment on Peltier’s test results from last month then perhaps he’s not facing cancer on top of everything else…which is a good thing. If he did have pressing or life-threatening health issues the BOP would move him to an appropriate medical facility. Lewisburg will do just fine for now…except for the accommodations apparently.)
Imagine the horror? “Yesterday (March 24th), another prisoner was moved into Leonard’s cell.”
Almost since day one Peltier has viewed himself as an exceptional case, an allegedly privileged character—a wrongfully convicted political prisoner—or so the folklore and myth would have us believe. I have no independent knowledge but would imagine that Peltier (in addition to his armed escape from Lompoc), has been pretty much of a pain-in-the-tail to prison authorities for years.
But what happened to Peltier the tough guy?
Peltier’s a tough guy when he and others are shooting at two agents pinned down in an open field; he’s the tough guy participating in cold blooded murder, blowing away the faces of two wounded human beings; he’s a tough guy when he sticks a gun in a woman’s mouth and threatens her life; he’s the tough guy when he steals government property and makes a run for it (well maybe not that tough as a thief and fleeing felon).
But now he’s a crybaby because he has a cellmate?
Even John Gotti, a real tough guy and once the nation’s most feared crime boss, who no doubt had a lot of respect and support from many fellow inmates, was the victim of prison violence (beaten bloody it was reported). But the Teflon Don, unlike Peltier, was a stand-up guy and told prison doctors that he, “fell down.”
Great plan from the LPDOC, have all those Peltier supporters complain to the BOP. The BOP will receive hundreds, maybe thousands, even hundreds of thousands of emails and phone calls. Right? No, not really, probably only a dozen or so. Reports of Peltier’s support are greatly exaggerated.
Here’s a solution: Peltier doesn’t want a roommate, especially one who hasn’t read or believes all the fairytales about him, or if he did, could care less…so give Peltier his own room (cell) in…solitary.
“In the spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
NPPA
Monday, February 7, 2011
"The Ten Points of Light"
Dear Supporters:
Peltier’s (the LPDOC’s) recent 2/1/11 newsletter “35 Years is (NOT) to Long” was interesting in part because they perhaps took some advice and posted the entire Peltier trial transcript on their website. But they did so at their own peril.
Aside from having the court decisions posted on the website from the beginning, the NPPA focused on the transcripts and provided a straightforward, unvarnished review of the “Critical Witnesses Against Peltier” (Editorial Essay #55: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical Anderson, Brown, Draper and Long Visitor), including direct and cross-examination and opening and closing arguments. These were the critical witnesses the jury had to weigh most heavily…testimony that placed Peltier at the scene of his crimes. Interested researchers are invited to review the transcripts and the summaries and decide for themselves.
Now included on Peltier’s website is an interesting and compelling legal discussion (The Ten Points of Light), but—only to the uninformed, because none of this is new and includes irrelevant, erroneous and out-of-context material within their highlighted references (the Wounded Knee trials and the 10th Circuit decision for example); none of which address Peltier’s actual guilt. Bringing up…yet again…for instance, the 10/2/75 teletype (ballistics report) without…yet again…presenting the rest of the facts; the three-day evidentiary hearing and subsequent appeal, or pointing out that Peltier had his own ballistics expert in the courtroom but chose—not—to call him as a witness. If that teletype was really so compelling…why didn’t their own witness attack it?
Every one of the Ten-points-of-Light have been analyzed and explained in detail over the past decade by the NPPA, but just for another example, how about point #3? Number three begins ““The first appeal of Peltier’s conviction occurred in 1977 before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Judge Donald Ross stated: “But can’t you see…that what happened happened in such a way that it gives some credence…” and #3 continues…
However, the first appeal to the 8th Circuit was rendered in 1978 (585 F.2nd 314, 1978 U.S. App. Decision, September 14, 1978, Decided {read the entire decision here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/585.html}).
But would it come as a surprise that the alleged quote from the LPDOC’s Point #3, does not appear in that decision? It shouldn’t, and doesn’t…Peltier and the LPDOC are wont to continue the folklore. Whether they are deliberately disingenuous remains to be seen…but they have a track record that the myth is more important than the truth. The real record speaks for itself, and any oral arguments before the courts are the prelude to the ultimate and final published court decisions.
Would it come as another surprise that this very decision stated “Secondly, the direct and circumstantial evidence of Peltier’s guilt was strong…” (I.B.4).
It shouldn’t.
Notice too that the LPDOC has a habit of not taking ownership of its work product…presented, unsigned by amorphous, phantom and ill-informed authors hiding behind the LPDOC. Apparently they have little pride in their efforts.
Please utilize the NPPA search feature to remove the out-of-context spin…don’t take either side’s version…explore and make an informed decision based on the record, because here again, it is not just a curious but deliberate omission of facts by Peltier and the LPDOC. The legal issues have been litigated to death…there are no other avenues to pursue…they have been either waived or decided against Peltier’s interests…try as they may to manufacture more. If they expect the further FOIPA results to magically produce “a smoking gun” (certainly no pun intended), they are mistaken.
So, posting the trail transcripts (which is a good move) creates a problem for Peltier. For those die-hards the transcripts are irrelevant because they wouldn’t read them anyway (they would prefer the LPDOC CliffsNotes version), but for those who want to know what really happened during the trial and have the energy to critically review a fairly large volume of material, they would ultimately agree with the jury’s verdict.
But, of course, re-litigating is just an exercise because Peltier’s guilt is beyond any doubt. Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise, and include the footnotes as well because those concerned are encouraged to research all the facts http://www.noparolepeltier.com/footnotes.pdf.
Re-litigating, or pretending that this is a viable option is just another way for Peltier to further demean an otherwise proud First American heritage. The vast majority of Native Americans see Peltier and AIM for what they really were, a genuine setback for native rights. That’s another reason why Peltier’s popularity has long since ebbed and he is in a constant mode of continuing to scam people that he’s in it for “his people.”
If Peltier had some courage he would not be afraid to post the finances, link to the NPPA and stop kicking this writer off the LPDOC mail list. The NPPA maintains three large lists, one of them certainly has a number of Peltier supporters, and that’s a good thing as well because no one has ever been removed from those lists. Besides, really, wouldn’t you think there are NPPA supporters on Peltier’s list and they forward the LPDOC material along anyway? But it’s a matter of principle…sorely lacking in the Peltier camp. So, LPDOC and Peltier, show some backbone and the strength of your own convictions (e.g. rhetoric) and come clean about the money you’ve taken in over the years and where it went and provide a link to the other side of the story…that’s what the NPPA did for your side almost eleven years ago.
The LPDOC’s Ten Points of Light—try as they may to create a diversion from the factual history of Peltier’s conviction—ignore the unquestioned basis of his continued actual and factual guilt. If there’s any doubt about that, just contact Mr. X. http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html
Peltier now finds himself in the absurd position of the dog who, having caught the car he was so frantically chasing, has no idea what to do with it—so he looks around guiltily and then slinks away while he diminishes a proud Native American heritage in the process.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Peltier’s (the LPDOC’s) recent 2/1/11 newsletter “35 Years is (NOT) to Long” was interesting in part because they perhaps took some advice and posted the entire Peltier trial transcript on their website. But they did so at their own peril.
Aside from having the court decisions posted on the website from the beginning, the NPPA focused on the transcripts and provided a straightforward, unvarnished review of the “Critical Witnesses Against Peltier” (Editorial Essay #55: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical Anderson, Brown, Draper and Long Visitor), including direct and cross-examination and opening and closing arguments. These were the critical witnesses the jury had to weigh most heavily…testimony that placed Peltier at the scene of his crimes. Interested researchers are invited to review the transcripts and the summaries and decide for themselves.
Now included on Peltier’s website is an interesting and compelling legal discussion (The Ten Points of Light), but—only to the uninformed, because none of this is new and includes irrelevant, erroneous and out-of-context material within their highlighted references (the Wounded Knee trials and the 10th Circuit decision for example); none of which address Peltier’s actual guilt. Bringing up…yet again…for instance, the 10/2/75 teletype (ballistics report) without…yet again…presenting the rest of the facts; the three-day evidentiary hearing and subsequent appeal, or pointing out that Peltier had his own ballistics expert in the courtroom but chose—not—to call him as a witness. If that teletype was really so compelling…why didn’t their own witness attack it?
Every one of the Ten-points-of-Light have been analyzed and explained in detail over the past decade by the NPPA, but just for another example, how about point #3? Number three begins ““The first appeal of Peltier’s conviction occurred in 1977 before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Judge Donald Ross stated: “But can’t you see…that what happened happened in such a way that it gives some credence…” and #3 continues…
However, the first appeal to the 8th Circuit was rendered in 1978 (585 F.2nd 314, 1978 U.S. App. Decision, September 14, 1978, Decided {read the entire decision here: http://www.noparolepeltier.com/585.html}).
But would it come as a surprise that the alleged quote from the LPDOC’s Point #3, does not appear in that decision? It shouldn’t, and doesn’t…Peltier and the LPDOC are wont to continue the folklore. Whether they are deliberately disingenuous remains to be seen…but they have a track record that the myth is more important than the truth. The real record speaks for itself, and any oral arguments before the courts are the prelude to the ultimate and final published court decisions.
Would it come as another surprise that this very decision stated “Secondly, the direct and circumstantial evidence of Peltier’s guilt was strong…” (I.B.4).
It shouldn’t.
Notice too that the LPDOC has a habit of not taking ownership of its work product…presented, unsigned by amorphous, phantom and ill-informed authors hiding behind the LPDOC. Apparently they have little pride in their efforts.
Please utilize the NPPA search feature to remove the out-of-context spin…don’t take either side’s version…explore and make an informed decision based on the record, because here again, it is not just a curious but deliberate omission of facts by Peltier and the LPDOC. The legal issues have been litigated to death…there are no other avenues to pursue…they have been either waived or decided against Peltier’s interests…try as they may to manufacture more. If they expect the further FOIPA results to magically produce “a smoking gun” (certainly no pun intended), they are mistaken.
So, posting the trail transcripts (which is a good move) creates a problem for Peltier. For those die-hards the transcripts are irrelevant because they wouldn’t read them anyway (they would prefer the LPDOC CliffsNotes version), but for those who want to know what really happened during the trial and have the energy to critically review a fairly large volume of material, they would ultimately agree with the jury’s verdict.
But, of course, re-litigating is just an exercise because Peltier’s guilt is beyond any doubt. Please see http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise, and include the footnotes as well because those concerned are encouraged to research all the facts http://www.noparolepeltier.com/footnotes.pdf.
Re-litigating, or pretending that this is a viable option is just another way for Peltier to further demean an otherwise proud First American heritage. The vast majority of Native Americans see Peltier and AIM for what they really were, a genuine setback for native rights. That’s another reason why Peltier’s popularity has long since ebbed and he is in a constant mode of continuing to scam people that he’s in it for “his people.”
If Peltier had some courage he would not be afraid to post the finances, link to the NPPA and stop kicking this writer off the LPDOC mail list. The NPPA maintains three large lists, one of them certainly has a number of Peltier supporters, and that’s a good thing as well because no one has ever been removed from those lists. Besides, really, wouldn’t you think there are NPPA supporters on Peltier’s list and they forward the LPDOC material along anyway? But it’s a matter of principle…sorely lacking in the Peltier camp. So, LPDOC and Peltier, show some backbone and the strength of your own convictions (e.g. rhetoric) and come clean about the money you’ve taken in over the years and where it went and provide a link to the other side of the story…that’s what the NPPA did for your side almost eleven years ago.
The LPDOC’s Ten Points of Light—try as they may to create a diversion from the factual history of Peltier’s conviction—ignore the unquestioned basis of his continued actual and factual guilt. If there’s any doubt about that, just contact Mr. X. http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html
Peltier now finds himself in the absurd position of the dog who, having caught the car he was so frantically chasing, has no idea what to do with it—so he looks around guiltily and then slinks away while he diminishes a proud Native American heritage in the process.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Saturday, January 1, 2011
New Year 2011...It's far from over...
Dear Supporters:
2010 ended with yet another example that Peltier’s criminal history is still being examined. The final chapter has yet to be written in the brutal slaying of Anna Mae Aquash at the hands of AIM members, although prosecutors are getting closer. Graham’s defense to the charges was to offer no defense at all. His conviction in South Dakota last December demonstrates that those involved in ordering her death have yet to be brought to justice. They know who they are and some are still out there; many of them hypocritically speaking on her behalf.
So this is one thing that Peltier can contemplate during the coming year, whether others, maybe even like Graham, will step forward and provide the sworn testimony needed to implicate him and others in her death.
Perhaps, it’s time for Peltier and the LPDOC to remove Anna Mae’s name from their website list of those allegedly “uninvestigated” deaths during the Reign of Terror…a reign for sure brought on by the criminal elements of the American Indian Movement, Peltier included.
Peltier and the LPDOC will continue their sham fundraising for legal issues which have long since been waived or lost during numerous appeals and watch as his ebbing support recedes to nothing.
Now that the holidays are over and we all face a New Year with some optimism for a recovering economy, an improved quality of life for all citizens and a saner world, please accept the very best for a healthy and happy New Year.
In the meantime and for this New Year and those to follow, our thoughts remain with the memories of Jack and Ron, their families, friends and former co-workers.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
2010 ended with yet another example that Peltier’s criminal history is still being examined. The final chapter has yet to be written in the brutal slaying of Anna Mae Aquash at the hands of AIM members, although prosecutors are getting closer. Graham’s defense to the charges was to offer no defense at all. His conviction in South Dakota last December demonstrates that those involved in ordering her death have yet to be brought to justice. They know who they are and some are still out there; many of them hypocritically speaking on her behalf.
So this is one thing that Peltier can contemplate during the coming year, whether others, maybe even like Graham, will step forward and provide the sworn testimony needed to implicate him and others in her death.
Perhaps, it’s time for Peltier and the LPDOC to remove Anna Mae’s name from their website list of those allegedly “uninvestigated” deaths during the Reign of Terror…a reign for sure brought on by the criminal elements of the American Indian Movement, Peltier included.
Peltier and the LPDOC will continue their sham fundraising for legal issues which have long since been waived or lost during numerous appeals and watch as his ebbing support recedes to nothing.
Now that the holidays are over and we all face a New Year with some optimism for a recovering economy, an improved quality of life for all citizens and a saner world, please accept the very best for a healthy and happy New Year.
In the meantime and for this New Year and those to follow, our thoughts remain with the memories of Jack and Ron, their families, friends and former co-workers.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
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