Western Reader
In a surprising turn of events, a federal judge has ordered the release of three men known as the ‘Newburgh Four’ from Hudson Valley. This decision came after it was revealed that the FBI had used questionable tactics to trap them into a plot to bomb synagogues and military planes over a decade ago.
Judge Colleen McMahon of the United States District Court in Manhattan delivered the verdict. Her ruling was a scathing critique of the FBI’s methods in pursuing Onta Williams, Laguerre Payen, and David Williams.
She referred to the plot for which they were convicted in 2010 as an “FBI-orchestrated conspiracy.”
Kudos to friends at @CivilFreedoms who after decades of tireless advocacy have won the release of three of The Newburgh Four, impoverished Black men who were entrapped by the FBI and prosecuted.
“The FBI invented the conspiracy,” said the judge.https://t.co/QCvq5qglb1 pic.twitter.com/2dPwh5riiw
— Azadeh Shahshahani (@ashahshahani) July 31, 2023
The judge’s words painted a stark contrast to the image of these men as international terrorists. She went on to describe them as “unfortunate, skillfully exploited and stingy measly criminals.”
This revelation raises serious questions about the integrity of our law enforcement agencies. It is a reminder that even those tasked with protecting us can sometimes lose sight of justice in their pursuit of perceived threats.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due process and the dangers of entrapment.
Amazing
For the past 14 years, relatives of four men jailed on terrorism charges in Newburgh, New York, have accused the FBI of entrapment. On Thursday, a federal judge agreed and ordered the release of three of the men known as the Newburgh Four https://t.co/OXoqrv7kFw
— Drogon (@drogon_dracarys) July 31, 2023
Under the judge’s order, the sentences of Onta Williams, David Williams, and Mr. Payen will be reduced to time served plus 90 days.
This comes after they were sentenced in 2011 to at least 25 years in prison. This decision marks a significant shift in their fate, offering them a chance at redemption and a life beyond prison walls.
While this case may be seen as a victory for these three men, it also serves as a wake-up call for our justice system. It underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in all aspects of law enforcement.
As we move forward, let this case serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding the principles of justice, even when faced with the threat of terrorism. Let it remind us that every individual deserves a fair trial, free from manipulation or coercion.
This article appeared in Conservative Cardinal and has been published here with permission.
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