A Hard Knock Radio Conversation: Leonard Peltier’s Commutation with Attorney Jenipher R. Jones

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

On Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D spoke with civil rights attorney Jenipher R. Jones about the commutation of Leonard Peltier’s sentence. Jones, Managing Attorney of For the People | A People’s Legal Office, discussed the legal battle, political resistance, and the path forward.

Decades of Injustice
Leonard Peltier, a member of the American Indian Movement (AIM), was convicted in 1977 for the deaths of two FBI agents. Activists and human rights organizations have long argued that his conviction was unjust. Over the years, efforts to free him have faced strong opposition from federal authorities.

A Historic Commutation by President Biden
Jones revealed that President Biden’s decision to commute Peltier’s sentence on January 20th came as a result of shifting political winds. While this was a significant step, Peltier’s release is conditional. He remains under home confinement and in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.

Is Leonard Peltier Truly Free?
Despite the commutation, Peltier is not completely free. His release terms mandate home confinement, raising concerns about continued restrictions on his movement. According to Jones, the legal team will assess further options to challenge these conditions.

Peltier’s Health Crisis
At 80 years old, Peltier suffers from severe health issues, including near blindness and unmanaged diabetes. Jones emphasized that his incarceration in a maximum-security prison has exacerbated these conditions. His supporters hope that his release will allow him to receive proper medical care.

Why Was Peltier’s Release Limited?
Davey D questioned why Peltier remains under home confinement despite his deteriorating health. Jones acknowledged the persistent influence of law enforcement agencies, particularly the FBI, which has actively opposed his release for decades. In fact, FBI Director Christopher Wray personally intervened to block Peltier’s parole and compassionate release.

Comparing Political Prisoners
The discussion also touched on the treatment of other political prisoners and the double standards in the U.S. legal system. Davey D pointed out how law enforcement largely remained silent on the early releases of January 6th insurrectionists, in stark contrast to their aggressive opposition to Peltier’s freedom.

The Fight Against Political Prosecutions
Jones warned that political repression is resurging, with activists increasingly targeted for prosecution. She stressed the need for vigilance, legal defense, and public advocacy to prevent the creation of new political prisoners.

Next Steps and Public Support
Jones urged supporters to stay informed and engaged. She directed listeners to visit www.freeleonardpeltiernow.org for updates and action items. She also highlighted the importance of continued pressure to ensure Peltier’s full freedom.

Conclusion
While Peltier’s commutation marks a victory, the struggle continues. His case remains a powerful example of the long road to justice. Jones and her team remain committed to fighting for his full release and advocating for broader systemic change.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post A Hard Knock Radio Conversation: Leonard Peltier’s Commutation with Attorney Jenipher R. Jones appeared first on KPFA.