News from Lori's Parents
14 December 2000
This is day 1,842 of Lori's wrongful incarceration in Perú.
In this update:First phase of Lori's "trial" scheduled to end tomorrow
The first phase of Lori's "trial" that began on Monday August 28 is scheduled to end on Friday December 15 -- following two extension periods and several delays in order to look for evidence that we know does not exist. As pointed out by numerous human rights groups, the U.S. State Department, and the Organization of American States, trials in Peruvian Civilian Terrorism courts do not meet international standards of openness, fairness, and due process. Although the Peruvian government is new, the laws, procedures, and personnel involved in Lori's trial are "old" -- remnants of the corrupt Fujimori-Montesinos government. If the Peruvian prosecutor insists on moving the "trial" forward, the public phase could start as early as December 26 or, because of the holidays, wait until some time in January. We may only be given a few days notice.
Now is the time for Lori to come home. The new government of Perú should recognize that to once again become a full member of the community of nations it must stop this corrupt process. It must recognize that its Supreme Military Council has nullified Lori's conviction, to try her again constitutes "double jeopardy," and to try her without due process ignores Perú's international obligations.
Urgent Action -- Please call Clinton now
Please call the White House hotline and ask others to do the same. Call 1-800-663-9566 or 202-456-1111 (press 0 for operator).
Talking points:
- Lori Berenson has been wrongfully held for over 5 years and should be released.
- A majority of Representatives and 44 Senators support Lori s release.
- President Clinton must act soon! He must bring Lori home for the holidays.