A Life in Hell: Summary of Key Points

Background of the Case

  • In late 1975, four indictments of Indians were issued for the deaths of two FBI agents; Leonard Peltier being one of the four.

  • Butler and Robideau were tried in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in July 1976 and found not guilty due to evidence of government misconduct and self-defense.

  • Charges against Jimmy Eagle were dropped to focus the prosecution on Leonard Peltier.

Peltier's Arrest and Extradition

  • Leonard Peltier was arrested in Canada on February 6, 1976, and fought extradition to the U.S.

  • The FBI used fraudulent affidavits from Myrtle Poor Bear, who claimed to be an eyewitness and Peltier's ex-girlfriend, to influence the Canadian courts.

Imprisonment and Treatment

  • Peltier's life became a cycle of jails, prisons after his capture, facing strip searches and demeaning treatment.

  • Conditions improved after legal motions, allowing books and art materials.

  • He experienced racist verbal abuse from guards.

  • Before extradition, he was held in harsh conditions.

Return to the U.S. and Legal Battles

  • Peltier was flown to Rapid City, South Dakota, and arraigned, representing himself.

  • He faced threats and poor treatment in various jails.

  • Peltier received two life sentences.

Leavenworth Penitentiary

  • Peltier describes Leavenworth as frightening, facing constant threats and psychological manipulation.

Trial and Conviction

  • The trial was moved to Fargo, North Dakota, where evidence of government misconduct was not allowed.

  • Peltier was prohibited from pleading self-defense.

  • The conviction was based on circumstantial evidence, much of it fabricated.

  • An all-white jury found him guilty on two counts of first-degree murder.

  • The prosecutor later admitted that the government had no direct evidence of who killed the agents.

Appeals and Continued Imprisonment

  • The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals acknowledged fabrication of evidence but denied a new trial.

  • In 1992, it was ruled that Peltier was guilty of "aiding and abetting."

  • A judge later stated the government was "equally responsible" for the agents' deaths.

Continued Efforts for Release

  • Peltier is considered a "political prisoner" due to the lack of credible evidence.

  • He has received support from millions of people.

Assassination Plot

  • After the Supreme Court's refusal to review his case in 1979, Peltier was transferred to Lompoc.

  • A fellow Native American prisoner informed Peltier of an assassination plot.

Current Situation

  • Peltier's lawyers continue to argue his innocence.

  • A new trial has been repeatedly denied despite evidence of a fabricated murder weapon.

  • The U.S. government admits to Peltier's fraudulent extradition from Canada.

  • Legal efforts are focused on seeking parole and/or presidential clemency.

Life in Prison

  • Peltier continues to live in Leavenworth, participating in sweat-lodge ceremonies for spiritual renewal.