Telegram from Special Officer B.W. Bell to Attorney General concerning lynching of Frazier Baker
4/19/1899
In an April 19, 1899, telegram to the Attorney General, Special Officer B.W. Bell (an officier hired to investigate the Lake City case) expressed full confidence in the strength of the evidence, stating that “If jury does not convict it will be utterly useless herafter [sic] to attempt convictions in this state for similar offences." After two strong opposing arguments, the jury deliberated for 24 hours. On April 22, “not guilty” verdicts were returned for three men.The jury was deadlocked five to seven for a guilty verdict on the other eight defendants, and the judge ordered a mistrial.
Transcript
S.C. Dated Apr. 19, 189923/13
Department of Justice
Number 6229 | 1899 | Received |
File No. 3463 | 1898 | Apr. 20, 1899 |
From Bell, Special Officer
Subject:
Government made exceptionally strong case, Bryan's effort before Grand Jury most powerful, etc.
(Lake City case.)
Charged to Boyd
Action
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Received at Wyatt Building, Cor. 14th & F Streets, Washington, DC Apr. 19, 1899
Dated Charleston, SC, 19
To Atty Gen'l Washn DC
Government made exceptionally strong case Bryan's effort before Jury. Most powerful superb, logical, & convincing. Defendants alibi completely riddled & Destroyed. If Jury does not convict it will be
[continued on next page, omitting headings of telegraph]
utterly useless herafterto attempt convictions in this state for similar offenses.
Bell Special Officer
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