JUSTICE FOR OSCAR GRANT
A preliminary hearing for the former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle-who shot an unarmed rider on New Year's Day-begins today.
The purpose of the hearing is for the prosecution to attempt to persuade a judge to bring the case before a jury. The hearing was originally planned for March 23, but was postponed at the request of the defense attorney in the aftermath of the slaying of four Oakland police officers.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that the hearing could last two weeks, with witnesses from both prosecutors and defense attorneys.
Defense attorney Michael Rains, known for getting the infamously crooked cop gang the Oakland "Riders" off, is trying to get the charge of murder down to manslaughter. He also attempted last week to get the county District Attorney's off the case. If this happens, State Attorney General Jerry Brown's office will take over.
Mehserle has pled not guilty to the charge of murder and is out on $3 million bail.
Oscar Grant's family has filed a $50 million wrongful death civl suit against BART.
Protestors plan to rally outside today, as well as other days of the trial.
IF YOU GO:
What: Preliminary Hearing for Johannes Mehserle
When: Monday, May 18, 2009. 8:00 a.m.
Where: Rene C. Davidson Superior Courthouse of Alameda County
1225 Fallon St., Rm 100 Oakland, CA 94612
More Info: (510) 891-6031
BART shooting hearing begins today
Monday, May 18, 2009
The Black Hour
