Hello everyone,
I
am writing today to remind you all of the next trial coming up on a case
that we have been working on. This is the case of Michael Ververis,
which is set to begin on Monday April 22nd at the Springfield Court, 50 State Street. We will gather at 8:30am and
go into the court in solidarity with Michael and his family. We need
you all to come and stand out with us and, together, witness this trial
that will reveal more police misconduct and brutality in Springfield.
Background: On January 9, 2011, Michael Ververis was assaulted by members of the
Springfield Police Department while simply trying to make his way home from a
night out in Springfield's entertainment district. Michael did not do
anything to prompt the officers’ rage.
He was merely sitting in the front passenger seat of a car that the
police had determined was blocking traffic on Worthington St. What quickly ensued thereafter was Michael becoming victimized by
the police as he was pulled from the vehicle, dragged nearby and ended up terribly beaten by six police officers. He emerged with both misdemeanor and felony charges,
including assault and battery of a police officer and attempt to commit larceny
of an officers firearm.
It is our belief that these charges were fabricated,
and evidence tampered with in an attempt to cover up police violence and
corruption. Video footage
(available at www.justiceformichael.org) and witness testimony clearly
show that Michael is not a criminal, but rather yet another victim of police brutality.
Remember,
we are building more and more community strength and power as we are so
strong together. We have experienced victories against the Prison
Industrial Complex in a number of cases now, and we cannot let this one
pass us by. This incident with the Springfield Police and Michael
Ververis is another very troubling and disturbing one.
So,
mark your calendars now for the week of April 22nd to your show of
support for Michael and to hold the Springfield police accountable.
For peace and justice,
Holly Richardson
Please join us at noon on Monday April 22 2013, in downtown Springfield. Court Square, as we honor the victims of violence injured and killed in the Boston Marathon Bombing this past week. We remember the kind words of 8 year old Martin Richard, who died in the blast, 'No More Hurting People'. Come stand with us as we call for an end to violence in Springfield. As we recognize all victims of violence and call for peace in our state and in our country. Guest speakers are welcome. The general public is welcome. Please contact Arise for further information.
