Life or death
[Brandon Astor Jones, who writes the weekly Looking Out column from his cell on death row in the United States, has sent us the following appeal. We urge those readers who are able to do so to respond.]
Judge P. Harris Hines, over my standing objections, has ordered me to be represented — in the appeal of my sentence of death — by attorneys Michael Mears and Jimmy Berry, both of whom allowed my mitigating witness to die of cancer in spite of the fact that the witness let them know in writing five months in advance that doctors had told her that she was expected to live only five or six months more.
Had they taken a video deposition from that witness before she died, that video testimony might well have been the deciding factor to convince the jury at my upcoming resentencing trial that my life should be spared. They had more than sufficient time to purse that defence strategy, but chose not to, nor would they even respond to my messages and letters.
Despite the obvious incompetence of Messrs Mears and Berry, the judge forces me to be represented by them; and, because of my indigency, I cannot pay for a competent defence attorney. With Messrs Mears and Berry, I am almost certain to get a death sentence again — and very soon.
I hope Â鶹´«Ã½ readers can help me. I need money to pay for a good attorney. Those who are able and willing to help are encouraged to send donations to the Brandon Astor Jones Defence Fund, Commonwealth Bank of Australia Account #2220/5002709; you may make donations at any branch of the bank. I assure you you will have a lifetime of gratitude from me. In fact, my life itself depends on your compassion and kindness, literally. I thank you in advance. Peace and love to each of you.