Last part of article below; whole thing here:
But [Leonard's attorney] Seitz was “guardedly optimistic” about a favorable decision from the Parole Commission [personnel named above]. He said that a “good rapport” had been established with the hearing officer, and that the new chair of the commission is generally held “in high esteem.”
President Barack Obama does have the power to grant clemency, but Seitz said prisoners apply only when all other avenues have been exhausted. Usually, says Seitz, “presidential pardons do not come until the Chief Executive is leaving office.”
Seitz says letters to the Parole Commission and to local newspapers, calls to Congressional Representatives (202-224-3121), talk show hosts and other forms of public pressure are now of the utmost importance. The hope, he says, lies in creating a “public environment favorable to release.”
As Leonard Peltier approaches his 65th year---having spent half his life in prison---every day is now critical to lifting this burden from our collective souls.
No comments:
Post a Comment