Story Published:
Aug 16, 2009
Story Updated:
Aug 17, 2009
LEWSIBURG, Pa. – There’s a digital clock on the official Leonard Peltier Web site marking the time the American Indian Movement activist has been in prison.
On a recent visit to www.leonardpeltier.net the clock read “12241 days, 12 hours, 17 minutes, and 43 seconds of ILLEGAL IMPRISONMENT,” then “12241 days, 12 hours, 17 minutes, and 44 seconds of ILLEGAL IMPRISONMENT,” “12241 days, 12 hours, 17 minutes, and 45 seconds of ILLEGAL IMPRISONMENT” and so on – a constant countdown that will either end within several days or continue for an unknown period of time, perhaps years, possibly until Peltier’s life ends.
The Federal Parole Board is expected to render a decision on whether Peltier will be released from prison after serving 33 years on two murder charges by Aug. 21.
Peltier was granted his second parole hearing since 1993 July 28, and appeared before the board to plead his case. The board has 21 days to decide whether to release Peltier or deny parole and keep him in prison indefinitely.
Peltier was convicted in 1977 and given two consecutive life sentences for the murder of FBI Special Agents Jack R. Coler and Ronald A. Williams, who were killed during a shootout on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota June 26, 1975.
The 64-year-old man has maintained his innocence, but controversy over whether he committed the murders, and over the fairness of his trial persist.
Those convinced of his guilt say he shot the two agents in cold blood and deserves to stay in prison for the rest of his life.
Peltier’s supporters, which include a huge international component, say he is America’s most famous and longest serving political prisoner.
But Peltier’s attorney, Eric Seitz, said the only issue pertinent is the law and that Peltier is eligible for parole.
The events of June 26, 1975 took place against a backdrop of terror that had developed on Pine Ridge. The reservation was under internal siege at the hands of then Chairman Dick Wilson and his “GOON Squad” – the so-called Guardians of the Oglala Nation, who were supported by and collaborated with the FBI and BIA police.
The conflict has been characterized as a battle between Wilson’s secular group and traditional elders and others who were working for election reform on the reservation. More than 60 people from the traditional group had been killed in the two years before the 1975 shootout. None of those killings were investigated by local, state or federal law enforcement agencies.
By 1975 things were so bad that some of the tribe’s elders called AIM for help. A group of AIM activists, Peltier among them, responded and set up a camp on the reservation. On June 26, 1975, two FBI agents in unmarked cars came onto the reservation apparently to serve a warrant to a boy who had stolen some boots. Soon after their arrival, shots were heard and the shoot-out began.
During the battle, the FBI agents and an Indian man named Joe Stuntz were shot to death. The activists fled, anticipating that the reservation would be overrun by FBI and other law enforcement people, which was exactly what happened. In the siege that followed, elders were beaten, houses were burned, people were terrorized and a lot of gun shots were fired.
Peltier escaped to Canada where he was later captured, extradited and brought to trial. Four of the AIM activists were indicted on murder charges, but only Peltier was convicted.
Over the years and through numerous appeals, dozens of allegations and inconsistencies have come to light regarding the FBI and the prosecution’s handling of the case, including witnesses recanting testimony against Peltier and accusing the FBI of coercing and threatening them into testifying; the FBI tampering with evidence and withholding crucial evidence from the jury, including the results of a ballistics report saying the bullet casing from the crime scene did not match Peltier’s gun, and the prosecutor himself conceding during an appellate hearing that, “We do not know who shot the agents.”
There are those who believe Peltier did not shoot them, but that the AIM members had the right to defend themselves under the circumstances.
“The AIM members didn’t go there looking for a fight or seeking confrontation. They were there to protect those who were there. When our people need help our warriors are supposed to respond and help. These warriors stood up and responded. We have the right to self defense,” said Wanbli, Dakota, national spokesman for the Leonard Peltier Defense Committee.
Others, like News from Indian Country editor Paul DeMain, said, “It simply took a delegation of people who were tired of all the deceptions, lies and dangers to step forward and tell me the truth. ‘Peltier was responsible for the close range execution of the agents,’ and that was the end of that. I have no reason to doubt the group of people, and others I have since conversed with, that they are telling the truth.”
While the debate continues over Peltier’s guilt or innocence, his attorney said the parole board’s decision must be based on the law. He has served the mandatory amount of time and is eligible for parole, Seitz said.
The criteria for parole include a prisoner’s record in prison, the likelihood of returning to prison if released, post-prison plans, and whether parole would diminish the seriousness of the offense.
“The last one is really the only issue and some people think he shouldn’t be paroled because the offense was too serious, but that basically means you could never be paroled, and that’s not the law,” Seitz said.
Peltier’s plan, if released, is to return home where his tribe has arranged a place for him to live and a job teaching art. He would be surrounded by people who can support his transition to life outside of prison, Seitz said.
“Leonard is feeling very apprehensive. He’s hopeful that he gets out. His health (he’s diabetic) is not very good, so he’s concerned about that and his ability to maintain himself in an environment where he doesn’t get timely or very aggressive medical care so we hope all these things will be taken into account when they make their decision.”
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In sourthern Utah said on Wednesday, Aug 26 at 8:01 PM
where the artifact raid took place and the anglo grave robbers were outraged at such treatment as American the ideology has permeated the insensitive air down this way! On Pioneer day little infants were paraded around in the town of Blanding, Utah in T-shirts with the words "KISS MY ARTIFACTS"..as a native parent I find this particular segment neither sensitive or closer to the creator than I yet they purport to report the sins of the RedMan everytime they get..we have our peltiers, no justice!
28312032Angry at the government said on Wednesday, Aug 26 at 4:18 PM
US will never let any Indians go free, look at all the pain and suffering we still go through to this very day as a result of the devastating history it has put on our people. The tribal government was established to be similar to them, so that they can "control" our people, and are still doing it. The councils have a sickness call greed, and no education. They should be there to help the people, but their not! What the US intended in 1776 still goes on today.Believe me! Look around at tribes.
28302118Apache Woman said on Wednesday, Aug 26 at 4:03 PM
This just tells you what kind of country the US is. I am apalled. He is not a terrorist, yet is treated like one. One of the Manson killer was paroled, and their crime was more heinous. Why not Peltier. Well, its because the US has an ego and does not want to be wrong. Still they have not acknowledged what their history has done to the Indian people, alcohol, diabetes, meth, greedy tribal council members, etc. This is what the US has created with their DIVIDE AND CONQUER OF A ONCE POWERFUL NATIO
28301338Pamela Bravo said on Wednesday, Aug 26 at 3:51 PM
Please update the injustice that has been done, Leonard Peltier has been denied parole, the whole world should cry out in anger. This is a sad day in history, The parole board should be ashamed of their decision. I have no faith in our so called government.
28300847sacrificial lamb said on Wednesday, Aug 26 at 2:35 AM
As Mr. Peltier said, "If I have to sacrifice some more, I'll sacrifice some more." In the Spirit of Crazy Horse, Leonard is a true warrior. "We shall remain." Stay strong. He has set an example to the world. Attention may be drawn to the Tibetan, the Inca, the Aleut, etc. by his life.
28268772angered Kiowa said on Tuesday, Aug 25 at 1:43 PM
you know if it were a white person who did this, he wouldn't be there this longgggggggg!!!!!!!
28237512Deborah Sevenwolves said on Monday, Aug 24 at 5:13 PM
Leonard is still in prison as a warning to any Indian that wants to rebel against the American government. It doesn't matter to them wheather or not he's innocent, the fact remains they have an AIMer and I believe they're going to keep him until the day he dies,
28201913totally disgusted again... said on Monday, Aug 24 at 2:21 PM
So let me get this straight - they let the terrorist who killed hundreds on the Lockerbee flight go home because he's "sick" and yet they keep Leonard in prison? 33 years plus, and all with a prosecution that had more holes in it than a collandar has? Still praying for you Leonard. God Bless
28193508Mdewakanton Wicasta said on Sunday, Aug 23 at 2:14 PM
The Federal Goverment is built on "our", the indiginous race's agony and suffering. I SINCERELY appriciate what Leonard and the rest of the Akicita did for the Oglala Nation. They stepped up to the plate and did'nt bat an eye in the face of the enemie! (F.B.I) AHO! Our Ancestors live forever! Pidamiya Yedo, Rick Blue Sr.
28152847loramargaret said on Saturday, Aug 22 at 11:45 PM
urgent, that I, as an informed person; try to reason with President Barak Obama, and his administration for Leonard's release. First, he was a victim of the co-intelpro program -- which released Geronimo Pratt in Oakland who was also in the same circumstance as Leonard. It is impossible for me to understand his continued incarceration without trying to make a plea to the president, his wife and his administration. If the events around the world can release prisoners, then let's do this.
28132798littleBear said on Saturday, Aug 22 at 9:44 PM
Justice Denied.
28129478Looney Tunes, anyone? said on Saturday, Aug 22 at 2:48 AM
Evidently Lady Liberty is going to stick to her guns and continue her policy of right by might. Custer and Chivington, among others, must feel exonerated. Reminds me of Elmer Fudd, if he could ever kill "that scwewy wabbit".
28099704Greyfox said on Friday, Aug 21 at 10:46 PM
This so called Land of liberty, freedom, and justice for all....it's the "American Way" to keep silent about how this country really began with the massacres,deception,lies, broken treaties, and telling Native Americans how they are going to live, taking our children and forcing them to let go of their own heritage, identity, dignity. It's still the American way to keep our strong warriors paying the price for the governments injustices. I say, Free Leonard Peltier!!!!!!!
28094676Steve said on Friday, Aug 21 at 5:22 PM
It is to the point of sadly humorous to read some of these. Leonard changed his own story more times than I change close. Mr. X did it, Santa Clause did it, I was with the women and kids, I was saw the dead FBI guys, yea I was there, but I didn't kill them, but know who did, but I am not telling. ... Jessie Jackson just KNOWS that OJ didn't kill Nicole....it was those whities framing him, and the beat goes on...and on Steve
28083426CW said on Friday, Aug 21 at 4:47 PM
It shouldn't take a genius to figure out that an innocent human being cannot, in all honesty, show "actual remorse" for a crime they didn't commit.
28081734Justice for All? said on Friday, Aug 21 at 3:55 PM
Parole was denied. Go figure. Like Tim Giago said, "...there are two forms of justice-one for whites and one for Indians."
28078741JB said on Friday, Aug 21 at 3:22 PM
You left out one criteria for parole: actual remorse. Don't see any of that here. Just the opposite, in fact. Also, was wondering if there is a clock on the Web site showing how long Agents Coler and Williams have been dead?
28076959Jo-Kool Dene said on Friday, Aug 21 at 2:43 PM
I have been supporting Leonard for years and I do believe he has paid his dept to society. He needs his freedom so he can enjoy what life he has left to be with the people that love him. Prison has proven that FBI cant break his spirit and Leonard has proven that, so let his spirit free.
28074791kahkakohs said on Friday, Aug 21 at 12:34 PM
FREE THE MAN!
28067364Swanny said on Friday, Aug 21 at 3:14 AM
Mr. Peltier is old and ill. He is not likely to offend in the future. It's time to let him go.
28049656Little White Brother said on Friday, Aug 21 at 1:24 AM
I Wish our Brother returns to Us as there is much work to do in the next few years. Anyone who thinks he is guilty is a fool. Only ignorant people can belive that the government tells the truth when every treaty made has been broken by them and every treaty was kept by natives. Free him and free us. Little white brother has spoken. Wado
28048229stephanie said on Thursday, Aug 20 at 9:00 PM
Federal Bureau of Intimidation will try to keep Leonard down. Young natives beat Leonard in prison if you can believe that people. It's time to make some noise and free this man once and for all. Write, e-mail and call Obama, your congressman, senators and T.V. stations. It's time for Russell Means to step up to the plate and fight hard for his brother's freedom.
28040027FBIcrimes said on Thursday, Aug 20 at 6:50 PM
Anyone who doubts how sinister the FBI is should read up on the case of James "Whitey" Bulger. Whitey Bulger ordered scores of murders and ran a crime syndicate in Boston. All the time he was being paid by the FBI and they also shielded him from prosecutions and warned him about investigations. This is the cloth that Trimbach is undoubtedly cut from. Also, White Supremacist Hal Turner just admitted to being paid by the FBI to spew hate speech on his radio program. These are facts.
28035586Cael Stuart said on Thursday, Aug 20 at 11:20 AM
If Leonard Peltier was a white man, he would have received a fair trial, not the railroading that he received. Because of FBI corruption and lies, Peltier was never legally convicted, and now they want to keep him in jail forever. They are afraid that if he gets paroled, the FBI corruption will surface again and a new generation will not let the governmental abuse continue!
28010026Mimi Red Elk said on Wednesday, Aug 19 at 3:42 PM
American Indian Movement...Aim for freedom, Free Leonard Peltier. I got banned from twitter for posting Peltier support statements similiar to this one.
27969706monica said on Wednesday, Aug 19 at 12:43 PM
if he were white he would have been out a long time ago..but then he would have caved, gave everyone up and cut a deal...i know its unrelated but howlong has charlesmanson been living on 'death row'?!unbelievable and frustrating....emailed and called w.haus in support of granting leonard parole!
27960356Windtalker said on Wednesday, Aug 19 at 2:07 AM
I pray for his freedom,i have foreseen many things with this case if he is released or not their will be good repercussions if he is released and powerful repercussions if he is not and i'm not liberal flap jack i'm a Shaman creator. Peace and love to all supporters
27943741Monica Charles said on Wednesday, Aug 19 at 1:28 AM
May Leonard receive real justice this time not fbi just us once again!
27943144James Simon said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 7:21 PM
Watch the Peltier video at americanindianmafia.com and ask yourself one question: would an innocent man need to change his story as many times as Peltier has changed his? The murder time window puts only 3 men at the scene of the crime at the critical moment. Robideau and Butler were acquitted. Who does that leave?
27932041there are some ndn said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 3:43 PM
fbi agents who are just as guilty...out there because during this time they used their own native people via buying alcohol such as the poor bear ladie who was a witness in this case. it was well known what was going on in allen, nebraska at this time. all funded fbi style by the money to the have nots. if dick willson could then why not the fbi?
27920736Marcie said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 2:29 PM
It's time to let Mr. Peltier out and let him live the rest of his life in peace. The US government has more than used their bulliness in charging him just because he was an indian. What is they find out 30 years from now that it was actually an FBI agent or Goon that killed these men?
27916534Modocprincess said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 1:19 PM
Where can I can a copy of American Indian Mafia?
27912589Tokaheya said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 12:18 PM
Cmon all you colonized and colonizers. You know darn well Leonard didnt do anything. Racism still exists wen people want him jailed knowing the evidence against him was coerced and phony. Even when your precious FBI admitted it. If we want justice, maybe the man who killed Joe Stuntz should take Leonards place in prison. Let him get beaten by prison guards. Oh no, never let a white man do time for killing a native. give him a medal right? just like wounded knee? Gimme a break u cowards!!
27908924"Lila" said on Tuesday, Aug 18 at 2:36 AM
Free!!!!.."He Who Leads the People"..... Then My words will be no more, no less ,but always in support of someone that I have ever known to sacrafice himself whole heartedly for all Peoples..... Spotted Shawl Woman.... "
27893024EyeFromCanada said on Monday, Aug 17 at 9:55 PM
It seems to me that your FBI is still a rogue organization with powers greater than the president and the rest of the government, including the judicial system. What other explanation can there be for the 'special treatment' that Mr. Peltier's has received (like the Bush administration allowing the FBI to transfer him to another prison where is got beaten nearly to death as a last goodbye)? So many unknowns who Have committed serious crimes, like the Charles Manson cult member who tried to as
27887501Jack Flap Jr. said on Monday, Aug 17 at 9:42 PM
Good Grief, this guy is guilty as sin and all you liberal freaks just need him for a cause. He executed two FBI agents at close range. He will not be let go....you ultra liberal crackpots should move on to other murderers, rapists and such..
27887024hey where's said on Monday, Aug 17 at 6:30 PM
churchill when we needhim? probably trying to get adopted..well he can have my census # , i don't use it or need it!
27880614Dora said on Monday, Aug 17 at 6:27 PM
American Indian Mafia? You mean the book written by the the FBI agent who lied about not knowing about wiretaps even though he signed them? The FBI agent who was rebuked by the judge of the Means/Banks trial? Yeah, I'm sure it is an objective book and couldn't possibly be a rationalization of the wrongs the FBI committed on Pine Ridge.
27880506Steve said on Monday, Aug 17 at 1:58 PM
Hey, I am kinda looking forward to finding out how long 'Two Life Sentences' is? I too hope to see 'Justice Served' and that he remain in jail for both of those life times. Enrolled Native that does not buy into the 'Poor Leonard' propaganda, Steve
27867821James Simon said on Monday, Aug 17 at 1:25 PM
Gale, Thanks for regurgitating the same old AIM propaganda. Please read American Indian Mafia before you comment on Peltier. Your readers are counting on it.
27866482Little Shield said on Monday, Aug 17 at 9:57 AM
Our smudge is lit and we are awaiting a fair decision~Peace Brother, you have held us all up over the years. May justice not be blind this time~
27857301Candace Colbert Odom said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 9:37 PM
Please release this man from prison. He has paid his years in prison...
27846239Buckster said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 7:39 PM
It's about time! Scapegoat for the Whiteman's sins he was! Maybe he'll be out in time for Indian Market and he can sell some art. He has come into his own as an artist. Good luck Leonard, You served time for all of us!
27843622Masaska said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 7:15 PM
Waste yelo hopefully this outrage and political prosecution will come to a fruition finally and let this warrior trapped in the belly of the beast go after illegal extradition and the unjust fallacy of he conviction all out o hang a warior for he persicution of his people don't you think that it's time to let this gifted Wambli fly???
27843059not a chance said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 5:23 PM
won't happen folks as the government wants to keep the status quo..there are places where the natives are sentenced harder for the same crimes time after time...paricularly in san juan county utah where the indian aritfact raid recently happened. an indian will do more time for the same crime vs the anglo. in fact the doctor who killed himself was given a slap on the hand by a judge who should have excused himself in an earlier case against this guy. But this time around he had no pioneer conec
27840454Arlan Racine said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 2:18 PM
They should have let him go before he did any time at all, but you can not exspect the government to admit they made a mistake and convicted a man for murder when all he was, was in the wrong place at the wrong time. The F,B,I should have looked a little closer at the goon squads that they had running around, there were more than one you know, and Dick Wilson received money to do what he and his cohorts did, they should all be doing live without parole for the things they did.
27834719Yepa said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 11:42 AM
It's time let him GO!
27829556Yvonne Swan said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 10:46 AM
I am waiting to see if there truly is justice for all in this country.
27827991Billie Fidlin said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 9:23 AM
As Ben noted above, the official web site is www.whoisleonardpeltier.info. This site is managed by LP DOC personnel, which is the organization run by Leonard's family and is in daily contact with Leonard and the legal team.
27825379Ben Carnes said on Sunday, Aug 16 at 12:49 AM
The official website is www.whoisleonardpeltier.info, there are a few unofficial sites out there. We encourage everyone to subscribe to the list-serve so as soon as we get the news, we can send it out to everyone to spread the word.
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