December 9, 2004
Hi Everyone,
Maybe Christmas is coming a little bit early for Michael this year. Within the past two days I have just received some very good news:
1. The Massachusetts Appellate Court will be hearing oral arguments on Michael's appeal January 12, 2005. This is 2-3 months earlier then we had expected these arguments to be held. So let's continue our prayers for Michael's lawyer as he prepares to present the oral arguments in front of the Massachusetts Appellate Court on January 12, 2005.
2. I just got off the phone talking with the New England Innocence Project (NEIP). They told me their review board was held and that Michael's was the top case presented. They are very interested in his case and would take it now. But because Michael is in his appeals process and has a lawyer they cannot take the case at this time. However, once the appeals process is over, and if it doesn't result in Michael's case being overturned, NEIP will reopen Michael's case and assign a lawyer to represent him. It's apparent NEIP saw something (probably a whole lot) in Michael's case they feel shows Michael's innocence. Something to remember--in all the years Innocence Projects have been representing wrongfully convicted prisoners they have never lost a case. Lets pray their record continues.
For those of you that haven't sent Michael a Christmas card yet please do so and tell him of your continued support of him.
You can send it to:
Michael O'Laughlin W80371
SBCC N-1 #57
PO Box 8000
Shirley, MA 01464
My best wishes to all of you for a blessed and joyous holiday.
Love,
Dick
