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| 12 Inmates Expected to Be Released in Texas controversy |
| By Associated Press |
| Published: 06/18/2003 |
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They were arrested on drug charges four years ago. Today, 12 people imprisoned on the testimony of a now-indicted undercover officer are expected to be released on personal recognizance bonds on those charges. Civil rights advocates called the July 23, 1999, arrests racially motivated. After an 18-month undercover operation, 46 residents of the small Panhandle town were. Of those, 39 were black. Many were convicted on the uncorroborated word of undercover drug agent Tom Coleman or accepted plea agreements out of fear of lengthy prison sentences. Today, the 12 blacks and one Hispanic will be taken from the Swisher County Jail to the Swisher County Courthouse. There, State District Judge Ron Chapman is expected to free 12 on bond while their cases are on appeal. One will remain in custody on other charges. On June 2, Gov. Rick Perry signed a bill allowing for their release. Meanwhile, a ruling on their cases by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals could take as long as two years. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles also is reviewing the cases. |
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