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Jaws of Justice Radio
It is the intention of Jaws of Justice Radio to investigate how to achieve justice in America, this includes issues of economic injustice, political injustice and the criminal justice system. We want to put a human face on those caught in the grasp of injustice and those that are part of an unjust system. We strive to dispel the misconceptions created by the news and entertainment industry, politicians and our educational system.
Note: Because of the KKFI Pledge Drive JoJR will start at about 9:20 this week only
On January 14, 2012 the feeling of security at the Independence Mall was shattered when a dispute over words of disrespect erupted in gunfire. Two victims were wounded in the leg and the shooter, Eric Bratton was arrested. On April 4th of 2012 Eric was convicted and the jury recommended a sentence of seven years. Former Jackson county Prosecutor and now 16th District Circuit Court Judge Jim Kanatzar ignored the jury’s recommendation and instead sentenced Eric Bratton to 64 years. Eric’s family and friends question whether he would have gotten such a sentence if his crime had been committed at the Landing Shopping Center in KCMO instead of the Independence Mall.
On today’s show host Lee Moore talks with Eric’s Mother Reeca Bratton, Uncle Virgil Wright, and Aunts Kathy Ford and Janet Graham about Eric’s case. They all agree that Eric deserves and should be punished for his actions. None of them agree with or understand a sentence of 64 years for a young man that had no prior felonies.
Was the judge sending a message with this sentence and if so what was that message? In Missouri Eric will be required to serve 85% of his time before he is considered for parole, will this sentence deter this kind of action in the future? Will this case be on your mind when the judge comes up for a vote of retention? Leave us a comment as to what you think.
If you want to find out more or help in the appeal of this sentence you can sign the petition at www.ipetitions.com/petition/justice-for-eric-bratton or donate to get him a new trial at www.ericbrattonlegaldefensefund.myevent.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The 8th Annual MORE Squared Imagine Banquet is this Thursday June 13th from 6-9pm at the Marriot-Muehlebach Hotel, 200 W 12th St, KCMO. The Keynote Speaker is Reverend Raphael Warnock PHD, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church of Atlanta. For more information call 816-523-1723, to purchase tickets go to www.more2.org/banquet
You can support women in our community by participating in the Power Walk ‘n Run sponsored by Dress for Success Kansas City on Saturday, June 22, 2013! The race starts at 31st and Troost, KCMO. Beginning times are 5k Run: 8:00 am and 5k Walk: 8:05 am. To register go to www.powerewalkrun.org For questions or more information e-mail [email protected] or call 816-561-5115.
Advance Notice: The Second Chance Coalition will meet June 25th at 3pm at the Heartland Center for Behavioral Change building at 1730 Prospect, KCMO in the District 4 Mo Probation & Parole Meeting Room on the Second Floor. The location is on the Northwest corner of 18th and Prospect and of course across the street from the Pioneer Campus so parking at the Campus is recommended.
