The latest on the Jena 6/Mychal Bell situation courtesy of Matt Olson - Mychal Bell’s Upcoming Court Hearings via post on Pursuing Holiness.Mychal Bell’s Upcoming Court Hearings
The latest out of Jena, Louisiana is that Mychal Bell, who was convicted of second-degree battery on thin and contradictory evidence but has new legal counsel, will have a bond reduction hearing on August 24.
…A motion hearing will be held at LaSalle Parish Courthouse on September 4 to determine whether Bell’s case should have been under the jurisdiction of the juvenile courts when his charges were reduced from second-degree attempted murder to second-degree battery just before his trial. This would effectively void his conviction in adult court.
The entire Jena 6 situation remains an American tragedy as I explained in an earlier post. At the end of the day ... this was a high school fight. The white kids were dealt with by school discipline. That is how the six Black youths should have been dealt with as well.
Instead, Mychal Bell has been in jail since September. The gameplan is to have him released on August 24 at the bond reduction hearing. Then the courts will be asked to reconsider decision to try him as an adult, instead of as a juvenile. This is critical for the others that are awaiting trial. Juvenile justice system is much more forgiving in terms of punishment for a school fight.
In any case Mychal Bell has already lost his football scholarships for college. He lost chance to enjoy New Year's Eve with his friends. He lost chance to celebrate his 17th birthday with his family. for a high school fight. The young brother faces the fight of his life.
He needs our support and prayers. Juliette Aiyana suggested that the The AfroSpear and others write Mychal a postcard or letter. It can be short. The key is simply that it's hearfelt. You can send your cards and letters to:
Mychal Bell
Inmate, A-Dorm
LaSalle Correctional Center
15976 Highway 165
Olla, LA 71465-4801
Villagers, a few moments of your time could really brighten this young man's spirit.
