Very few capitol cases have generated the attention and controversy that surround the case of journalist/activist Mumia Abu-Jamal. The former Black Panther was convicted of killing a Philadelphia police officer in 1982 and has been in prison for the last 24 years.
Today marks the second day in Abu-Jamal’s appeal for a new trial.
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A panel of three judges will hear evidence from the prosecution and defense which could ultimately decide Abu-Jamal’s fate; a new trial or a reinstated execution.
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The shooting in question took place in December of 1981 during a traffic stop involving Abu-Jamal’s brother. The 53-year-old writer is said to have allegedly shot Officer Daniel Faulkner twice. Witnesses in the original trial also stated they saw Abu-Jamal fire at Faulkner and the fatal bullets were linked to the gun found at the scene.
The jury delivered a guilty verdict after deliberating less than a day.
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Abu-Jamal has proclaimed his innocence throughout the ordeal, and his attorneys cite racial bias and numerous flaws in the original trial and following appeals as reason for a new trial.
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Among those charges is that the prosecution unfairly excluded Blacks from the jury during the original case.
Tensions have run high since news of the appeal got out. Both supporters and detractors of Abu-Jamal have offered praise and condemnation.
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A concert in support of Abu-Jamal was held this week which featured rapper/activist Immortal Technique.
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However, some feel that the “Free Mumia” campaign makes a “hero out of a cop killer”, according to an ABC News article.
“Mumia is nothing but a cold-blooded murderer,” said Maureen Faulkner, told ABC back in 1998 and also added that the activists behind Abu-Jamal have been “duped.”
For more information on both men, visit www.freemumia.com and www.danielfaulkner.com
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To read Immortal Technique‘s editorial on Mumia Abu-Jamal, CLICK HERE.
