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Senator's Letter – A Plea for Justice

Senator’s Response: A Continued Fight for Justice October 9, 2024


At Manumit Me, we are committed to advocating for those wrongfully incarcerated and exposing the legal loopholes that contribute to unjust sentences. This blog continues our dialogue with a U.S. senator from California as we push for accountability in the legal system.


Background

           On September 6, 2024, my dad, Gezo Edwards-El, wrote to Senator Laphonza Butler highlighting critical flaws in how "knowing" and "knowledge" are applied in conspiracy drug charges. His letter exposes how these misused legal definitions lead to wrongful convictions and excessive sentences, particularly for non-violent offenders.


Key Points from His Letter:


  • Misuse of "Knowingly" – The government charges individuals with conspiracy based on assumptions rather than proving actual knowledge of illegal activity. This contradicts Supreme Court precedent (McFadden v. United States, 2015), which requires proof that a defendant knew they were dealing with a controlled substance.

  • Systemic Issues in Drug Law Enforcement – The War on Drugs disproportionately harms marginalized communities, reinforcing racial and economic inequalities. Meanwhile, the government’s own role in introducing drugs into communities contradicts its punitive policies.

  • Call for Action – My dad urges the senator to support legislative changes to prevent wrongful convictions and back a petition raising awareness and pushing for reform. His letter is part of a broader movement demanding accountability and justice.


The Senator’s Response to My Dad’s Letter



Senator Laphonza Butler
Senator Laphonza Butler

After receiving my dad’s letter on September 6, 2024, in which he outlined the misuse of legal terms like "knowing" and "knowledge" in conspiracy charges, Senator Laphonza Butler responded on October 9, 2024.




In her response, the senator:


  • Expressed sympathy for his concerns but clarified that she cannot intervene in matters that fall within the jurisdiction of the courts.

  • Suggested that my dad seek legal counsel through the Bar Association, Legal Aid Societies, or similar organizations.

  • Stated that she upholds the separation of powers doctrine, meaning that she cannot comment on judicial matters.


While the response acknowledged the hardship, it failed to address the systemic issue of wrongful convictions based on misapplied legal language. Instead, it was treated as a personal legal concern rather than a broader policy failure affecting countless individuals.



My Dad’s Reply: Clarifying the Real Issue


On October 21, 2024, my dad wrote back to Senator Butler to clarify that this was not just about his case—it was about a national crisis affecting millions of people.


Key Points from His Response:


1. This Is Not Just One Case

  • His original letter was not about a personal appeal but rather a pattern of injustice in the federal system.

  • His case is one example of a widespread problem: the government prosecuting people without proving they knew they were dealing with an illegal substance.


2. Violation of the Separation of Powers Doctrine

  • While the senator mentioned the doctrine, my dad pointed out that the Executive and Judicial branches are overstepping their authority by enforcing laws that Congress did not explicitly define.

  • Courts have ignored Supreme Court rulings that require proof of intent in drug cases.


3. A Call for Legislative Action

  • Since the senator cannot intervene in a court case, the real question is: Will she take action to address this injustice as a lawmaker?

  • We urged her to investigate how the federal government has incarcerated people for over 40 years without proving they knowingly broke the law.


Read the Full Exchange



What Happens Next?

This exchange highlights a critical gap in how legislators address wrongful convictions. While courts enforce unfair laws, senators have the power to change them—but will they?

We are not giving up. We continue to push for legislative reform to address the misuse of conspiracy charges and demand that Congress take action.


How You Can Help:

  • Share this blog to spread awareness.

  • Sign the Manumit Me petition at www.manumitme.com.

  • Contact your state representatives and demand an investigation into wrongful conspiracy convictions.

Justice is not given—it’s fought for. Let’s keep fighting.

 
 
 

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