Dear Supporters:
On the LPDOC’s home page is a statement, “Analysis of Constitutional Violations,” which, if accurate and legitimate, could have some significance in the Peltier debate. But since it is based on a fundamental ignorance of the judicial process, misguided claims and blatant factual errors, it amounts to no more than tortuous Peltier rhetoric.
What they are attempting to do is re-litigate and retry Peltier, which is not possible…that ship has sailed. Analyze all you’d like, but first make it accurate; then set it aside.
They also failed to identify one of only two arguably potential Constitutional violations in the Peltier trial. The Analysis mentions “Brady,” but neglects “Bagley.”
---The Analysis relates in part:
“Prosecutors and federal agents manufactured evidence against him (including the so-called “murder weapon”); hid proof of his innocence; presented false testimony obtained through torturous interrogation techniques; ignored court orders; and lied to the jury. People are commonly set free due to a single constitutional violation, but Peltier—faced with a staggering number of constitutional violations—has yet to receive equal justice.”
Staggering? My goodness. The link to constitutional violations leads to an eight-point Analysis that is so skewed and inaccurate it would take a 75-page Editorial Essay to correct how it misconstrues the reality of both the judicial process and facts of Peltier’s conviction and appeals.
(Author’s note: there are over sixty Editorial Essays on the NPPA website, all of which, including proper sources, references and footnotes, in one manner or another address all the issues raised in this “Analysis.” So, there is no point spending many hours crafting yet another reply. There is a search feature on the NPPA home page that can take a reader to any topic. But for now an appropriate response will be in the form of a conversational addition to the NPPA Blog.)
This Analysis, signed by a “feather,” instead of, as usual, the LPDOC writer taking ownership of his/her work product, assumes the premise that every legal argument in a criminal proceeding is in some manner a violation of the Constitution. It also ignores that it is not just the Constitution (and the Bill of Rights) but the interpretation of those provisions over many decades by the U.S. Supreme Court and applied to the judiciary through voluminous procedural rules of evidence that jurists apply to each legal question raised by the prosecution and defense.
The following is offered to clarify just of few of the Analysis’s errors submitted by “Feather.”
---Extradition: Peltier’s extradition from Canada and the Poor Bear affidavits:
To make it crystal clear, the final word from the Canadian Government was; “All three of the Poor Bear affidavits were before the Minister, as were extensive written and oral submissions made on Mr. Peltier’s behalf.” “I (Canadian Minister of Justice, A. Anne McLellan, October 12, 1999) have concluded that Mr. Peltier was lawfully eradicated to the United States. In my opinion, given the test for committal for extradition referred to above, the circumstantial evidence presented at the extradition hearing, taken alone, constituted sufficient evidence to justify Mr. Peltier’s committal on the two murder charges.” (Footnote #1)
What part of “all three,” “lawfully extradited,” “taken alone,” and “sufficient evidence,” doesn’t Feather quite understand?
---Myrtle Poor Bear, subpoenaed but not allowed to testify:
Really? Then can we also quote Peltier’s own attorney who stated during his opening argument to the jury (trial transcript at 47, by Defense attorney John Lowe) “And finally, we believe that you will find a witness, at least one witness whose mental imbalance is so gross as to render her testimony unbelievable.”
So, Feather wants it both ways to prove nonexistent Constitutional violations: First use the alleged improper use of Myrtle Pool Bear’s affidavits during the extradition proceeding and then, throw Poor Bear under the proverbial bus by calling her mentally imbalanced and not wanting her to even testify. Which is at once, neither politically correct, nor an intelligent evaluation.
---Whose mistakes? Feather said that one of the Constitutional grounds, based on “seven grievous mistakes,” included that; “Angie Long Visitor heard a series of firecrackers. (See had testified she only heard one shot).”
Really, just one shot? According to her trial testimony (transcript at 2566), she was asked “All right. What was it that came to your attention that morning for the first time?” Answer: “Well, we heard something, firecracker or something.”
Heard one shot? No. Heard a “firecracker or something.”
Long Visitor also then very critically added “I looked over and seen them two FBI cars standing there.”
Two FBI cars that no one had to point out to her and that she readily recognized as such, which dispels another Peltier fallacy that the two they were shooting at were “interlopers” or “Goons.” She clearly established that everyone knew the FBI when they saw them.
---Unduly prejudicial testimony allowed: Unrelated collateral criminal acts by Mr. Peltier allowed.
(First, evidence of flight is circumstantial evidence of guilt for a jury to consider.)
---Feather claims “Mr. Peltier’s alleged flight based on circumstantial evidence, from a motor home in Oregon, despite the fact that he was never actually seen there (p.2223-2232).”
So, based on that, Feather wants us to conclude that Peltier was never actually seen there…implying that he wasn’t in the motor home and fled?
Referencing trial transcript 2223-2232, as Feather does to make the point of “alleged flight” is more than disingenuous, it is incredibly sloppy analysis.
At the end of that referenced testimony, Oregon State Trooper Ken Griffiths was asked “All right. When you shot the two shells or shot, did you observe anything to indicate to you from your own knowledge whether or not you had hit the individual? Griffiths’ answered, “No.”
The backdrop is that on November 13, 1975 while fleeing north with others in a motor home (registered to Marlon Brando), and being follow by others in a station wagon, they were all pulled over. As things developed, a shot was fired. One individual, who Trooper Griffiths had already ordered out of the motor home, believed that this individual had fired the shot at him and he returned fire with two shotgun rounds, not knowing whether he hit the fleeing individual.
On November 14th a ’71 Ford pickup and a .30-30 rifle were stolen from a house a few miles to the south and “That day, a relative in the Portland area received a phone call from Peltier, saying that he had been shot and needed help; he was taken to a doctor who had been helpful at the time of Wounded Knee…Peltier rested for three days near Portland while travel arrangements were made; then he headed north, crossing the border into British Columbia…”
That, by the way, is a quote from In the Spirit of Crazy Horse by Peter Matthiessen on pages 230-231. And why is that a valid source of Peltier material? Well, because, at the bottom of the website page of the “Analysis” there’s this notation: “Much of the information on this site is from In the Spirit of Crazy Horse by Peter Matthiessen, the definitive work on the American Indian Movement (AIM) and the Peltier case.” (Fn. 2)
So this is where Peltier made his way into Canada, but there was one other piece of critically relevant physical evidence; under the seat in the motor home was a paper bag containing Jack Coler’s service revolver. On the bag was found a latent fingerprint belonging to none other than, Leonard Peltier.
So Feather, “despite the fact that he was never actually seen there,” it’s not to hard to conclude, then for the jury, and now for us, that Peltier was there.
---Flee: The Analysis emphasizes a convoluted argument that for some reason testimony wasn’t allowed “…tending to show that Mr. Peltier has reason to flee,” “to show reason for flight.”
Then where is the logic? If there were efforts to prove that Peltier had a reason to flee; why didn’t he? Instead, he engaged in assault, murder, desecration and theft…before he decided, to use his own words, “We gotta get out of here.”
---Feather mentions the critical witnesses, but for a straight-forward review of exactly what the jury had to consider regarding those four very crucial witness, please see the Editorial Essay “Critical Witnesses against Peltier.” (Fn. 3)
---Reports of the Red pickup truck: It’s embarrassing that at this late stage the Peltier camp would make any reference to the red pickup. Whether there was either some confusion or conflicting testimony about the description of a red pickup-like vehicle in the area (which was for the jury, not Feather, to decide), does not remove the fact that the red pickup had but one purpose; it was a canard, a defense diversion to create confusion among the jurors, but the historical truth of the matter is that this alleged vehicle is forever inextricably linked to just one thing, the phantom killer, the lie of Mr. X. And without belaboring the mater for the umpteenth time, suffice to say that you should all recall “Incident at Oglala” (available on Peltier’s website), where Bob Robideau provides great detail as he points off into the distance and describes how someone they knew, killed the agents and drove off in the infamous red pickup. And in the very next scene Peltier stating “This story is true.” Remember that, Peltier supporters and Feather? Or would you just like to pretend it never happened or that Dino Butler came out publically, and said it was, in fact, a fabrication, a lie to divert attention from what really happened.
(Fn. 4)
---Most crucial evidence was completely fabricated: The history of this issue is that Peltier received, among other documents, an October 2, 1975 FBI Teletype concerning ballistics evidence. (This related to forensic matching of the Wichita AR-15 {associated only with Peltier} and the .223 shell casing located in the trunk of Agent Coler’s vehicle.) Peltier claimed this was improperly withheld “Brady” material. The trial court (District Court, Judge Benson) disagreed. Peltier appealed to the Eighth Circuit, which remanded the matter back to the District Court and a three-day evidentiary hearing was held in October 1984. The District court ruled against Peltier and he appealed that ruling again to the Eighth Circuit.
After all this additional legal argument and judicial review, the Eighth Circuit 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 it own ballistics expert, it offered no contrary evidence.” (Fn. 5)
That was a finding of fact by the appellate court.
There are many more faults in the “Analysis,” but we’ll end here for now.
So exactly what kind of feather is Feather? Obviously it’s intended to be an Eagle feather, a proud and symbolic bird of prey (far from the cowardly Peltier); or more possibly a turkey feather, an animal that is weak, fat, not agile, can’t run very fast, can’t fly and is not very bright; or a vulture, picking on the putrid remains of what’s left of Peltier’s rotting folklore, or more likely the proverbial chicken, afraid to face or understand the facts but runs away from the obvious fact—no matter how they try to retell or spin this case—it cannot retry Peltier or ignore his guilt.
In either case Feather’s Analysis is nothing more than fodder for weak-minded Peltier supporters, too pre-occupied with the myth to explore and understand the facts surrounding his conviction and the unmistakable depth of his remorseless guilt. Add to which, Peltier is playing the Native American race card to a narrow audience, and the gullible are buying into it.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed woods
(Footnotes)
1- http://www.noparolepeltier.com/canadaletter.html
2- Matthiessen p.230-231
3- http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#critical)
4- http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html)
5- http://www.noparolepeltier.com/800.html at “The .223 casing” section.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Friday, February 17, 2012
"WIND CHASES PRESTON" A prediction. Peltier Update
Dear NPPA Supporters:
The young Preston Randolph, college student and aspiring director, continues on his remake of Incident at Oglala under the new documentary title, “Wind Chases the Sun.” Catchy title even if the geophysics is implausible.
Preston recently stated of Wind; “This film with the new information and very new and very shocking testimonies from former FBI, BIA and BOP as well as key witnesses will be revealing for the first time the horrific truth…we will be blowing this case apart…etc., etc.,” You get the point.
(Side note: If Wind includes, for the BOP, the love-affair scenario between Leavenworth guard Bruce Smith and Peltier, it will lack credibility; nothing Smith claims has any relevance to Peltier’s conviction, sentence, appeals or feigned innocence. It would amount to meaningless filler.* Also, if Wind includes, for the FBI, anything from former FBI agent M. Wesley Swearingen, it will contain even less credibility. Swearingen’s ramblings have covered all the bases from the incredible to the bizarre [he knew of the plot to kill JFK…]. Swearingen adds nothing of substance to the Peltier debate except that he did say “Why does anyone have to know who actually fired the fatal shots? I can assure you that if I had been in such a shoot-out there would have been a hell of a lot of dead Indians.” “Peltier is a joke, as is Bob Robideau.”** )
Early on I exchanged emails with Preston but it became apparent that confusing agenda with facts was problematic; it’s much easier to pursue the folklore.
With his “expansive team of researchers and producers,” (in other words, Preston and buddy or two), they plan to undo nearly 37 years of intense scrutiny, multiple trials and hearings, dozens of appeals and thousands upon thousands of pages of reports, documentation and transcripts that will produce “…documents, testimonies, affidavits and interviews you have never heard of…”
Wonderful threat, and a tall challenge that cannot be reached, and here’s why: Every single question concerning June 26, 1975 has been asked and answered, and the fundamental facts of what happened that day cannot be altered no matter how deep the mythology surrounding Peltier becomes. The substance of what the Peltier jury heard from the “critical witnesses” establish the sequence of events that began with the overheard radio calls from Agent Williams himself that they were about to come under fire, and then were, as those nearby responded to their aid. But too late, as Joe Stuntz and Norman Brown fired on the first responding agent and BIA officers.
We don’t have to search too terribly far for some basic facts, just ask Leonard, and quote directly from him perhaps the most crucial single sentence in this entire, nearly
four-decade-old drama. “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.” (ITSOCH p552)
That was an FBI jacket (and thanks for the smile, Joe), as they stood there with two dead agents at their feet, their faces blown to bits, (and by the way, they were both physically moved; shot in the face but found face down establishes that; the crime scene photos are self-evident ). Then Peltier and others stole their weapons and one of the vehicles, and using Peltier’s words again, “We gotta get out of here.”
And yes, the prediction. Mr. X.
For nearly twenty years Peltier had an alibi and stuck to it as it was chronicled in ITSOCH with even a cameo appearance in “Incident.” Yes, Matthiessen and Redford both bit into that rotten apple. Quoting Peltier… “This story is true. But I can’t and will not say anything about it. For me to testify against anybody-or even mention-try to get somebody else in trouble-is wrong. And I won’t do it. Because it’s against my belief, it’s against my religion, my culture. It’s against everything that we’ve fought for or stood up for. (Everything, of course, but the truth.)
Really, how quaint that he felt so strongly about not identifying Mr. X, even though it turned out to be one huge lie (just ask Dino Butler).
So, how will young Preston handle this in the blockbuster “documentary” Wind Chases? Ignore it (as Peltier did, never mentioning Mr. X or the infamous red pickup truck in his autobiography, Prison Writings)? Claim, like so many others, that it must have been another government conspiracy of some sort or anther? (Tough to do with all the admissions from Butler, Robideau and Peltier.) Or try to spin it yet in some other direction. Odds are it won’t even be mentioned.
Perhaps a tile change would be appropriate. “Wind Chases Mr. X” would work.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
No Parole Peltier Association
*See NPPA Blog: Peltier “Shot” in Prison dated August 28, 2011 re Bruce Smith.
**See Editorial Essay #28; M. Wesley Swearingen: No longer supports Leonard Peltier,
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#swear, and the “1 Star” reviews, by this writer, on Amazon.com, of Swearingen’s two hopeless and ineffective books.
The young Preston Randolph, college student and aspiring director, continues on his remake of Incident at Oglala under the new documentary title, “Wind Chases the Sun.” Catchy title even if the geophysics is implausible.
Preston recently stated of Wind; “This film with the new information and very new and very shocking testimonies from former FBI, BIA and BOP as well as key witnesses will be revealing for the first time the horrific truth…we will be blowing this case apart…etc., etc.,” You get the point.
(Side note: If Wind includes, for the BOP, the love-affair scenario between Leavenworth guard Bruce Smith and Peltier, it will lack credibility; nothing Smith claims has any relevance to Peltier’s conviction, sentence, appeals or feigned innocence. It would amount to meaningless filler.* Also, if Wind includes, for the FBI, anything from former FBI agent M. Wesley Swearingen, it will contain even less credibility. Swearingen’s ramblings have covered all the bases from the incredible to the bizarre [he knew of the plot to kill JFK…]. Swearingen adds nothing of substance to the Peltier debate except that he did say “Why does anyone have to know who actually fired the fatal shots? I can assure you that if I had been in such a shoot-out there would have been a hell of a lot of dead Indians.” “Peltier is a joke, as is Bob Robideau.”** )
Early on I exchanged emails with Preston but it became apparent that confusing agenda with facts was problematic; it’s much easier to pursue the folklore.
With his “expansive team of researchers and producers,” (in other words, Preston and buddy or two), they plan to undo nearly 37 years of intense scrutiny, multiple trials and hearings, dozens of appeals and thousands upon thousands of pages of reports, documentation and transcripts that will produce “…documents, testimonies, affidavits and interviews you have never heard of…”
Wonderful threat, and a tall challenge that cannot be reached, and here’s why: Every single question concerning June 26, 1975 has been asked and answered, and the fundamental facts of what happened that day cannot be altered no matter how deep the mythology surrounding Peltier becomes. The substance of what the Peltier jury heard from the “critical witnesses” establish the sequence of events that began with the overheard radio calls from Agent Williams himself that they were about to come under fire, and then were, as those nearby responded to their aid. But too late, as Joe Stuntz and Norman Brown fired on the first responding agent and BIA officers.
We don’t have to search too terribly far for some basic facts, just ask Leonard, and quote directly from him perhaps the most crucial single sentence in this entire, nearly
four-decade-old drama. “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.” (ITSOCH p552)
That was an FBI jacket (and thanks for the smile, Joe), as they stood there with two dead agents at their feet, their faces blown to bits, (and by the way, they were both physically moved; shot in the face but found face down establishes that; the crime scene photos are self-evident ). Then Peltier and others stole their weapons and one of the vehicles, and using Peltier’s words again, “We gotta get out of here.”
And yes, the prediction. Mr. X.
For nearly twenty years Peltier had an alibi and stuck to it as it was chronicled in ITSOCH with even a cameo appearance in “Incident.” Yes, Matthiessen and Redford both bit into that rotten apple. Quoting Peltier… “This story is true. But I can’t and will not say anything about it. For me to testify against anybody-or even mention-try to get somebody else in trouble-is wrong. And I won’t do it. Because it’s against my belief, it’s against my religion, my culture. It’s against everything that we’ve fought for or stood up for. (Everything, of course, but the truth.)
Really, how quaint that he felt so strongly about not identifying Mr. X, even though it turned out to be one huge lie (just ask Dino Butler).
So, how will young Preston handle this in the blockbuster “documentary” Wind Chases? Ignore it (as Peltier did, never mentioning Mr. X or the infamous red pickup truck in his autobiography, Prison Writings)? Claim, like so many others, that it must have been another government conspiracy of some sort or anther? (Tough to do with all the admissions from Butler, Robideau and Peltier.) Or try to spin it yet in some other direction. Odds are it won’t even be mentioned.
Perhaps a tile change would be appropriate. “Wind Chases Mr. X” would work.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
No Parole Peltier Association
*See NPPA Blog: Peltier “Shot” in Prison dated August 28, 2011 re Bruce Smith.
**See Editorial Essay #28; M. Wesley Swearingen: No longer supports Leonard Peltier,
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#swear, and the “1 Star” reviews, by this writer, on Amazon.com, of Swearingen’s two hopeless and ineffective books.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
LET'S CAPTURE THEM! Capture turns to murder
Dear Supporters:
In the film “Incident at Oglala,” Bob Robideau proclaims
“We needed to capture these two agents, we didn’t know they were agents at the time. We didn’t have any idea who they were. We felt it had become necessary to capture them and that’s what we were going to do.”
There are several obvious problems with this fantasy scenario.
Everyone on the Reservation knew who the federal agents were; even during Peltier’s trial when Angie Long Visitor said “I looked over and seen them two FBI cars standing there.” “Because nobody has new cars around here.” And because of the “aerials.” (transcript 2657). In other words, everyone knew that white guys in civilian clothes driving late model cars with antennas, were Feds. No secret there.
Then when did the scenario change? They were first going to “capture” the agents, but after they were severely wounded and unable to defend themselves they were both shot in the face at point-blank range. So the capture, after it became obvious they were agents, turned into murder?
But Robideau had an explanation for that too. In the film he describes the phantom Mr. X: “That day I noticed a red pickup coming down from that white house up there (pointing for the camera), and when it got on the other side of these cars, it stopped, an individual got out, of course I knew who he was…and fired and killed both of them. Shorty after that the individual got back into the driver’s side of the pickup, and the pickup left, and made its way up along this tree line up here (still pointing for the camera) and past the green house and I never saw the red pickup again.”
(Mr. X, by the way, was allegedly bringing dynamite to the camp that day. And let’s not forget that Dino Butler called both Robideau and Peltier liars on Mr. X and this fable.)
So we have a feigned capture plot, a known shooter who does the deed and drives off, and yet, according to Leonard Peltier, it was all “pre-planned,” almost ordained.
In his secondary-school level book, Prison Writings, Peltier offered this whopper of a tale: “I can't believe that the FBI intended the deaths of their own agents…nor does it jibe with the fact that scores, even hundreds, of FBI Agents, federal marshals, BIA police, and GOONS were all lying in wait in the immediate vicinity. It seems they thought they'd barge in on that phony pretext, draw some show of resistance from our AIM spiritual camp, then pounce on the compound with massive force.” (Page 113)
“Spiritual?”
“Hundreds?” “Massive force?” “All lying in wait?”
Interesting, yet in Robideau’s tale they had plenty of time to shoot at the agents, wound them, kill them, steal their weapons and one of the vehicles, before the first agent even showed up at Jumping Bull.
All this fantasy is disproven by the fact of Agent Williams’ radio calls for assistance and that the nearest agent and two BIA officers were about twelve miles away when this all started. The responding agent and officers were also shot at when they attempted to enter the Jumping Bull property from Highway 18.
And, of course, this all flies in the face of Peltier’s latest reinvention of that day (“They attacked the Village,” NPPA Blog, 12/27/11).
Robideau’s statements stand, along with “Incident at Oglala” because Peltier still relies on Robert Redford’s fantasy remake of Peter Matthiessen’s “In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,” who was characterized by a Harvard law professor as "Mr. Matthiessen is at his worst when he becomes a polemicist for his journalistic clients. He is utterly unconvincing-indeed embarrassingly sophomoric-when he pleads the legal innocence of individual Indian criminals." In other words, both works are fatally flawed…carbon copies as it were…but we cannot ignore the direct and recorded statements from either Robideau or Peltier.
Adding more insult and injury to Peltier’s cause even Peter Matthiessen didn’t by the pre-planed tale; “…the agents pulled up in that vulnerable place down in the pasture because they heard a warning shot or came under fire; if there is another persuasive explanation of the location and position of their cars, I cannot find it.” (ITSOCH p.544) In other words, for the factually challenged, feeble-minded Peltier sycophants, the Agents were attacked and murdered at Jumping Bull that day.
The fabled and feigned innocence and the remanufacturing of facts continues embarrassingly in the Peltier camp…their problem lies in the fact that their claims are so easily dispelled as Peltier continues to foster the myth that he somehow legitimizes a rich Native American history.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
For a factual and accurate review please see the following:
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/timing.html
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html
In the film “Incident at Oglala,” Bob Robideau proclaims
“We needed to capture these two agents, we didn’t know they were agents at the time. We didn’t have any idea who they were. We felt it had become necessary to capture them and that’s what we were going to do.”
There are several obvious problems with this fantasy scenario.
Everyone on the Reservation knew who the federal agents were; even during Peltier’s trial when Angie Long Visitor said “I looked over and seen them two FBI cars standing there.” “Because nobody has new cars around here.” And because of the “aerials.” (transcript 2657). In other words, everyone knew that white guys in civilian clothes driving late model cars with antennas, were Feds. No secret there.
Then when did the scenario change? They were first going to “capture” the agents, but after they were severely wounded and unable to defend themselves they were both shot in the face at point-blank range. So the capture, after it became obvious they were agents, turned into murder?
But Robideau had an explanation for that too. In the film he describes the phantom Mr. X: “That day I noticed a red pickup coming down from that white house up there (pointing for the camera), and when it got on the other side of these cars, it stopped, an individual got out, of course I knew who he was…and fired and killed both of them. Shorty after that the individual got back into the driver’s side of the pickup, and the pickup left, and made its way up along this tree line up here (still pointing for the camera) and past the green house and I never saw the red pickup again.”
(Mr. X, by the way, was allegedly bringing dynamite to the camp that day. And let’s not forget that Dino Butler called both Robideau and Peltier liars on Mr. X and this fable.)
So we have a feigned capture plot, a known shooter who does the deed and drives off, and yet, according to Leonard Peltier, it was all “pre-planned,” almost ordained.
In his secondary-school level book, Prison Writings, Peltier offered this whopper of a tale: “I can't believe that the FBI intended the deaths of their own agents…nor does it jibe with the fact that scores, even hundreds, of FBI Agents, federal marshals, BIA police, and GOONS were all lying in wait in the immediate vicinity. It seems they thought they'd barge in on that phony pretext, draw some show of resistance from our AIM spiritual camp, then pounce on the compound with massive force.” (Page 113)
“Spiritual?”
“Hundreds?” “Massive force?” “All lying in wait?”
Interesting, yet in Robideau’s tale they had plenty of time to shoot at the agents, wound them, kill them, steal their weapons and one of the vehicles, before the first agent even showed up at Jumping Bull.
All this fantasy is disproven by the fact of Agent Williams’ radio calls for assistance and that the nearest agent and two BIA officers were about twelve miles away when this all started. The responding agent and officers were also shot at when they attempted to enter the Jumping Bull property from Highway 18.
And, of course, this all flies in the face of Peltier’s latest reinvention of that day (“They attacked the Village,” NPPA Blog, 12/27/11).
Robideau’s statements stand, along with “Incident at Oglala” because Peltier still relies on Robert Redford’s fantasy remake of Peter Matthiessen’s “In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,” who was characterized by a Harvard law professor as "Mr. Matthiessen is at his worst when he becomes a polemicist for his journalistic clients. He is utterly unconvincing-indeed embarrassingly sophomoric-when he pleads the legal innocence of individual Indian criminals." In other words, both works are fatally flawed…carbon copies as it were…but we cannot ignore the direct and recorded statements from either Robideau or Peltier.
Adding more insult and injury to Peltier’s cause even Peter Matthiessen didn’t by the pre-planed tale; “…the agents pulled up in that vulnerable place down in the pasture because they heard a warning shot or came under fire; if there is another persuasive explanation of the location and position of their cars, I cannot find it.” (ITSOCH p.544) In other words, for the factually challenged, feeble-minded Peltier sycophants, the Agents were attacked and murdered at Jumping Bull that day.
The fabled and feigned innocence and the remanufacturing of facts continues embarrassingly in the Peltier camp…their problem lies in the fact that their claims are so easily dispelled as Peltier continues to foster the myth that he somehow legitimizes a rich Native American history.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
For a factual and accurate review please see the following:
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/timing.html
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/lie.html
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html#concise
http://www.noparolepeltier.com/debate.html
Saturday, January 7, 2012
JACK COLER: 1947-1975 REST-IN-PEACE
Dear Supporters:
Jack Coler; son, brother, father, husband, L.A.P.D. police officer, FBI agent.
At age 65 (January 12th), Jack would have left behind twenty, perhaps a thirty-year career of proud, professional service to his country as a Special Agent. He may have found a second career for some time either in or out of law-enforcement, but based on what we know of him, probably remaining in law-enforcement or a related field.
His two fine young sons, now grown into productive and successful family men themselves, would have blessed him with grandchildren.
It should be unmistakable that there are thousands of current and former FBI agents and FBI personnel, thousands of law enforcement officers and officials and thousands of concerned citizens who will not forget Jack Coler’s sacrifice in the line of duty. They will endeavor to keep his memory alive and ensure that Leonard Peltier continues to serve the remainder of his lawful sentences.
At this time every year, our fondest thoughts and prayers go out to Jack’s family, friends and associates.
He will not be forgotten.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Jack Coler; son, brother, father, husband, L.A.P.D. police officer, FBI agent.
At age 65 (January 12th), Jack would have left behind twenty, perhaps a thirty-year career of proud, professional service to his country as a Special Agent. He may have found a second career for some time either in or out of law-enforcement, but based on what we know of him, probably remaining in law-enforcement or a related field.
His two fine young sons, now grown into productive and successful family men themselves, would have blessed him with grandchildren.
It should be unmistakable that there are thousands of current and former FBI agents and FBI personnel, thousands of law enforcement officers and officials and thousands of concerned citizens who will not forget Jack Coler’s sacrifice in the line of duty. They will endeavor to keep his memory alive and ensure that Leonard Peltier continues to serve the remainder of his lawful sentences.
At this time every year, our fondest thoughts and prayers go out to Jack’s family, friends and associates.
He will not be forgotten.
“In the Spirit of Coler and Williams”
Ed Woods
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
PELTIER: "THEY ATTACKED THE VILLAGE"
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
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, 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
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