MILWAUKEE, WI – For the past week, the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression has been following the highly charged self-defense case trial of WI v. Theodore Edgecomb. This case, in particular, involved a Black man, Theo Edgecomb. Edgecomb defended himself against a drunk lawyer, Jason Cleerman, after being hit by Cleerman’s car and having racial slurs used against him, while simply trying to pick up food for himself and his daughter.
Judge David Borowski, who on numerous occasions showed his clear bias, oversaw the trial. Leading up to the trial, Borowski admonished the defense team for filing multiple motions, only to deny them. Borowski disallowed crucial evidence and rejected potential witnesses. Throughout the entire trial, Borowski constantly expressed frustration with the speed of the trial, frequently complaining about the defense trying to do their job thoroughly. Borowski had every opportunity to recuse himself. Instead, he decided to remain as the judge and complain each day. For these reasons: we demand that this case is taken to the court of appeals to reconsider the motion for a mistrial.
This trial has clearly shown that self-defense is only acceptable when you are born into and defend white supremacist institutions. Borowski showed his true sympathies in this trial, and his sympathies lie with the racist system. Our hearts go out to the Edgecomb family, as this is truly a hard day for them. The Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression will not stop demanding justice for Theo Edgecomb until he is free.
A sentencing hearing for Theo is set for April 8, and the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression will be holding a car caravan at 6pm on January 27 starting at Mitchell Park.
