Jesse and Rose during a brief Reunion
Hello friends!
I realized it has been a long time since I posted any updates, so here it is. I am still in Minnesota. I have applied to transfer my probation from MN to California, was denied the first time and am waiting for the outcome of the second. We expect to hear by the first week of November, and are hopeful this application goes through. An essential element to a successful transfer is our contacts in California responding actively and determinedly to the CA probation office. I have asked anyone contacted by probation to let me know so we can spread the word. Transferring probation is a tricky matter and it has become apparent they will deny someone for the simplest snag.
I have submitted an appeal of my conviction and it is currently under review in the appellate courts. Three judges have convened to read and discuss the briefs and now have two to three months to submit their decision. There are three possible outcomes (as far as I understand): One – the conviction and case are thrown out completely and I am a free person! Two - the conviction is thrown out and my case is sent back to trial. In re-trial I could not receive new jail time or a harsher sentence, and would have the opportunity to beat the prosecution with all we learned from the first trial. Three – the judges affirm the conviction and nothing changes. I will post their decision when it arrives. Cross your fingers!
So there are the details as I recall them right now. It has been over two years since I was first arrested, over two years since I lived where I want with my family and friends. It has been a year since my sentencing here, last year this time I was in solitary confinement awaiting classification at the Workhouse. There are experiences that linger with me, things I am dealing with stemming from all that has happened in these last two years. I continue to feel that a part of me waits to be back in CA for good before really settling, relaxing, recovering.
I have been struggling with staying in good contact with those I love and apologize to anyone who has felt out of the loop, or overlooked. As I look back I continually feel such immense gratitude for all the support I received. It will always be a source of strength for me, and I hope that all of you feel the same way. If there are any thoughts of stories that come to you as you reflect on the past two years please do not hesitate to get in share them with me.
This has been one hard journey, and though it isn’t over I can’t help but feel victorious. Despite incredible stress and pressure we found compassion, clarity and each other. Thank you.
I would also like to take this opportunity to remind folks of other people currently facing charges and upcoming trials. The RNC 8 are now only 4 but are quickly approaching trial and deserve your support. And some folks in Asheville are facing 10 misdemeanors and three felonies after being arrested on May Day this year. Unfortunately there are many more behind bars or facing them but we are more than capable of taking care of each other. This I know.
Yours as always,
Jesse
