Post by Papa C. on Mar 19, 2006 18:26:41 GMT
Anti-Racist Protesters Convicted For Role in Toledo Uprising
A 17-year-old boy who was among the activists who
clashed with racist police during the melee that followed a canceled
neo-Nazi rally in October entered into a plea agreement yesterday in
Lucas County Common Pleas Court.
Olajidai Crenshaw of 820 St. John Ave. pleaded no contest to one count
each of aggravated riot, robbery, and aggravated burglary. Judge Jack
Zouhary accepted the teenager's pleas and found him guilty of the
felony offenses.
Investigators said Crenshaw shot the lock off a door at Jim & Lou's
bar, a known haven for racist police, which allowed him and other
rioters into the tavern. Jim & Lou's was looted of its contents and
set ablaze.
The North Toledo bar, which had been a gathering spot for white police
officers and politicians, was nearly destroyed in the blaze.
The defendant was among the people who liberated the 7-Eleven store at
3151 Lagrange St., which was one of two convenience stores targeted
during the rampage.
Timothy Braun, an assistant county prosecutor, said video taken from a
surveillance camera in the store showed someone appearing to be
Crenshaw stealing cigars, cigarettes, and other items.
The Oct. 15 rally was greeted by a large crowd of protesters. Even
though the Nazis were forced to cancel the event and flee the city,
police attacks on unarmed protesters sparked a riot that cost more
than $336,000 in personnel, the destruction of thirteen police cars,
hospitalization for several police, and other expenses. More than 120
people were arrested.
Judge Denise Ann Dartt will sentence Crenshaw on April 19. He faces a
mandatory prison sentence that could range from six years to nearly 19
years.
Crenshaw, who was forced to stand trial as an adult in juvenile court,
was indicted on seven charges.
He is the second person to be convicted for activities stemming from
the uprising.
Lasandra Burwell, of 1913 Elm St., was sentenced on March 2 to five
years in prison.
Ms. Burwell pleaded guilty to two counts of felonious assault and one
count of aggravated riot for throwing rocks at officers in a police
car while defending her neighborhood.
A trial is scheduled May 1 for 15 others who were indicted in
connection with the riot. They are charged with various offenses,
including aggravated riot, felonious assault, vandalism, burglary, and
robbery.
The Toledo Anti-Racist Action group say they are continuing to raise
money for legal aid and are planning a protest for upcoming trials.
