March 28, 2004
Hi Everyone,
It's been a couple of months since I last sent out an email update on Michael. Some of you wondered if I was still involved in Michael's case. I can assure you I am. It's just there has been a lot going on in Michael's behalf regarding his appeal. Michael, his appellate lawyer and myself have been busy reading and studying Michael's trial transcripts. Michael's lawyer is very busy putting together the Brief that is due to the Massachusetts Appellate Court in mid-May. This Brief is critical as it will determine how the Appellate Court will rule on Michael's appeal. I ask all of you to keep Michael and his lawyer in your prayers during the upcoming months.
I have spent many hours reading the transcripts and putting a report together regarding my thoughts on what went on at Michael's trial. If I had any doubts about Michael's innocence before (which I did not) reading these transcripts reinforced beyond a shadow of a doubt my belief in Michael's innocence. Michael was convicted on circumstantial evidence not direct evidence, and many convictions are won based purely on circumstantial evidence. During direct appeal, the main concern the appellate court looks at are errors of law (e.g., denial of motions, prosecutor misconduct, faulty jury instructions, etc.). Those are the types of issues that have a chance of getting Michael's conviction reversed, and it is those issues Michael's lawyer is focusing on. An important thing to remember about the appellate court is they will review the evidence "in light most favorable to the Commonwealth." The court will be looking at what evidence there IS rather than what evidence there ISN'T (e.g., no fingerprints, no footprints, no hair, no fiber, no blood on Michael).
Easter is in two weeks. In Christian religions this is one of the most holiest days of the year. It is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter signifies a new beginning. Let us pray for a new beginning for Michael as he continues the journey to obtain his freedom.and seek justice. This will be another special holiday that Michael will not be spending with his two daughters. Michael really enjoys receiving cards and letters during the holidays and any other time of the year. Many of you have been very generous in your remembrance of Michael with letters and cards. I ask you this Easter to remember Michael in your prayers and by sending him a card to let him know you're thinking of him and supporting him. You may find Michael's mailing address at: http://www.freemichaelnow.com/send_letter.html Another way you can show your support for Michael is by signing his Guest Book http://www.freemichaelnow.com/Guest_Book.html He receives each and every entry and is most appreciative of them.
I wish all of you a happy and blessed Easter.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support of Michael.
If you have and questions you'd like to ask please contact me at dickleb@aol.com
Dick
