So I decided to do a little investigating of my own into the case of Marshall "Eddie" Conway. I read through multiple articles to establish a full understanding of the events that transpired that led to a 40 year sentence. In the late 60's he was a leader in the Black Panther Party. The FBI and Baltimore PD would have under cover officers working in secret within the ranks of the Black Panthers. On the evening in question 2 officers were fired upon whilst sitting in a marked patrol car. One officer was killed and another injured. "Eddie" and another man are said to have been seen escaping the scene, later the weapon was found, tested and upon ballistics matching from the scene of the crime "Eddie" was then arrested at work at the Post Office. What starts to get my gears going is when it came time for trial "Eddie" requested one of two lawyers that usually defended the Black Panther Party in such cases his request was denied and he was appointed an attorney who did not conduct any pre-trial investigation. Further more during his pre-trial detainment he was placed in a cell with a known informant who then later testified against him in court. Even furthermore the other man who was present during the crime also testified against "Eddie" but then claims his statements were coerced and falsified. "Eddie" has made multiple attempts to appeal his case and every time they were struck down. So in my mind even if this man was innocent the system was already set in place to convict him. I feel that at the time of this occurrence "Eddie" was used as a way of sending a message to the Black Panther Party of disdain and intimidation. Which ironically was more than likely racially motivated and only intensified the Parties anger towards the system in general and illustrated even more reasons why the Party felt the way that it did. So I do agree with Conway when he says he was a political prisoner. While serving his 40 year sentence Conway received 3 degrees, wrote a book, maintained his innocence, and is said to have been an exemplary inmate. What's so ironic about this story is here is a topic worthy of conversation, investigation, and even appreciation but the trending topic on Tuesday was that the same day that Marshall "Eddie" Conway was released so was southern rapper Lil' Boosie after 5 years incarcerated. In his case he went to jail for a Marijuana charge and was caught attempting to smuggle drugs while incarcerated so the judge tacked on additional time. No political message, no message of any positive sort that I can see. But his release and need of shopping therapy was the topic of the day and somewhere at the bottom in fine print we see Marshall "Eddie" Conway. Your priorities reflect your principles whether as an individual or as a people. I end with this quote from Conway's book to leave you with reflection.
“Political prisoners are men and women who have been incarcerated for their political views and actions. They have consciously fought against social injustice, colonialism and/or imperialism and have been incarcerated as a result of political commitments. Even while in prison, these men and women continue to adhere to their principles."
