Subj: Re: To the Jury and Rhonda Date: 8/28/03 To: <A HREF="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</A> Dear Jury: I am sorry to say that this project has come to a close.  William Randall is found innocent without prejudice.  This case is dismissed.  The jury is hung and Mr. Randall's case will not be retried.  Due to the hung jury he must go free.  All of us had strong opinions.  However, it is apparent that a discussion group for posting is not the best medium for a trial.  I have thought from the start he was guilty.  However, during the course of this project I happened to watch a film titled 12 angry men.  Now, I realize this is a contrived story.  But, the fact remains that a jury that works it out is the best solution.  This is an American film so I don't know if it can be seen in Australia.  Also, I saw a remake of the original.  I highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in the process of rail roading a 2nd class or 3rd class citizen.  Also, anyone with an interest in legal process.  It takes courage to stand up against a room full of persons who do not agree with you.  However, this is the only way the legal system will work.  We must all think for ourselves and do our best not to allow our own personal bias to keep us under the influence. I have always striven to get at the truth no matter what the consequence.  I think the Randalls were as much a victim of their class standing as they were of each other.  I am certain their lives must have been very difficult.  Yet, even with all of this kept in mind I do not think Mr. Randall is innocent.  However, what is truly important is the preservation of a just legal system. I am sad to say that the United States could improve its delivery of justice.  Justice for all is in truth a selective process.  Justice for some.  I well understand that was the conditions in Australia in its not so distant past.  So, I can understand those who want to see Mr. Randall go free.  If his going free means the legal system remains unbiased then I am all for his freedom. In closing I want to thank all of you for putting up with this.  I have learned from the process and I hope each of you have in your own personal way.  I want to thank Rhonda for this wonderful opportunity.  She is a good woman with the personal strength of Hercules. You have all been wonderful. Very Truly Yours, Arleen Betos