Friday, July 12, twenty-nine Human Rights activists were given sentences, ranging from three to six months in federal prison. Seven received six months probation. Fines ranged from none to $5000.
Thirty-seven defendants had been in federal court all week for civil disobedience at the School of the Americas (renamed Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation) in Columbus, Georgia.
Ken Crowley was the first defendant called before the judge for sentencing. His attorney brought up the fact that the federal probation office had made a recommendation of 12 months probation and a $500 fine.
Ken Crowley was the first defendant called before the judge for sentencing. His attorney brought up the fact that the federal probation office had made a recommendation of 12 months probation and a $500 fine.
Judge Faircloth ordered that none of the other probation office recommendations were to be talked about. It is believed that a majority of the defendants received the same recommendations.
Eight of the defendants pled guilty to Trespass on Monday. Ten pled not guilty, while stipulating to the facts presented by the prosecution.
Eight of the defendants pled guilty to Trespass on Monday. Ten pled not guilty, while stipulating to the facts presented by the prosecution.