Why?

The American judicial system goes through phases. At times, the system has been more under-inclusive (more likely that guilty go free) and at times it has been over-inclusive (the innocent are jailed). In the current over-inclusive phase, Innocence projects are sprouting up all over. Illinois, in particular, has been the focus of controversy. State attorneys have become self-aggrandizing politicians. The prosecutor motto should be “do justice”. Currently, the motto appears to be “get ‘em all.”

Peoria County Attorney Kevin Lyons has failed to check evidence. Look at Lyons’ history of incorrect statements:
-he claimed that Rob didn’t turn himself in: Rob turned himself in at each request. He has been in and out of jail multiple times and has made each court appearance in person or through his attorney;
- he claimed that Rob has had 14 lawyers, trying to fight the system; In fact, Rob has had one or two lawyers at a time. One did the first trial but failed to put on a defense. One died. One did not do appeals. Rob has put his life in the hands of attorneys he trusts. The Bluhm Legal Clinic has taken Rob’s latest case at no cost. This is the same group that has worked to free many others who were falsely accused.
- he has referenced Rob’s money. In reality, Rob has absolutely no money. His friends and family have given all they can because they know the truth. I question if Lyons called Rob “rich” in order to spin the public perception.

Rob maintains his innocence and, though he lives within the confines of the justice system, he believes that justice will free him and reunite him with his children.

A carrot to Terry Bibo who pointed out in her February PJS article, the story is “unbearably sad”. Terry asks the question, “What if he is innocent?”

To Kevin Lyons: you are wrong. If you are simply mistaken, please examine and remedy your mistakes. If you stepped on the head of a drowning man to advance your political agenda, I will only hope that others will step up to Right this Wrong.

To those learning of Rob’s situation: please look to the resources available and learn about the situation: Rob’s supporters – teachers, doctors, factory workers, lawyers . . . blue, white and pink collar . . . are willing to give you the history and the facts. Court documents and evidence are available to anyone. Please get the full story. Then, please lend us your support.

Write Rob at R64897 Robert Becker, 10930 Lawrence Road, Sumner, IL 62466.

As my friend Rob returns to prison, I am impressed at his honor and grace. During appeal, Rob could easily have fled the country. (Many encouraged him to.) Rob remained committed to responding fairly to an unfair situation. I had the privilege of spending time with Rob before he voluntarily presented himself to the court. Despite the looming cloud, our visit included laughter and camaraderie. As we talked through legal strategies and financial realities, we recognized the importance of telling Rob’s story. Rob has attempted to tell his story in his own words.

The ordeal reads like bad fiction. An innocent man has twice been convicted. I understand the public skepticism, but I was present. I, along with a gallery of life-long friends and family watched as the system was compromised by misinformation. I recognize that is it difficult to admit making a mistake. The “system” must now work together to fix its mistake.

Jeff Urdangen noted the legal system has failed Rob Becker. Jeff’s appeal to the US Supreme Court holds some hope for redress. The fact that the Bluhm Legal Clinic took the Writ pro bono shows that they have learned the facts and they know the truth.

If you want to help, you may:
- Write to Rob (simple encouragement is appreciated.)
- Donate money specifically for legal fees.
- Set up an account to receive calls.
- Spread the word to others who may want to help

If you want to learn more, contact me.

If you want to write to Rob, his address is R64897 Robert Becker, 10930 Lawrence Road, Sumner, IL 62466.

Right the Wrong.

One Year Ends and Another Begins

Hoping everyone enjoyed the holiday weekend, I did not want to smear the spirit with my woes.

Sleepless nights continue as I prepare myself mentally for what lies ahead; frantically trying to stay present to savor the immediate moments. Enjoying time with my family and friends and especially my mother for the holidays. I never stop thinking about my children and I repeat the mantra that "I did not commit a crime and Olivia was not ever injured. The forensic evidence PROVES this but people are strange." Insult to injury was being politically pilloried by the elected officials at the top of my own profession. Betrayal and anguish.

I don't want to be a whiner and I try to keep my chin up these days despite the fact that I cannot honestly believe this type of thing happens to anyone these days in a land of laws not men. Why me? No answer. It is what it is.

We have hope and a plan and I need support as I often get frozen like a deer in the headlights. I cannot explain why this happens as I am a fighter/problem solver and feel ashamed of my mental immobility. Yet here I am, Alive and well taking one day at a time.

More to come. Happy New Year.

Rob

Note from Rob

Dear loved ones, friends, and supporters:

I have some bad news and good news to report.

The bad news is that the Illinois Supreme Court was politically inclined to reinstate the conviction and overturn the Appellate Court. This is very bad.

The good news is that our legal team has committed to petition the United States Supreme Court to hear the ultimate appeal. Very few of these cases are granted so I must take other steps as well.

Needless to say, I have spent sleepless nights drafting this letter from every perspective, including that of an aggrieved attorney,
perplexed parent, stupified person and every other angle imaginable.

The anguish and despair are beyond words.

To say that my state has been catatonic would be an understatement.
Many of the details of the immediate future are yet unknown to me, but I will keep you posted as long as I REMAIN FREE ON BAIL.

Thank you for your support and encouragement which nourish my endurance (and have for 7 years now)! But the fight is not over and we must persevere for the good of many similarly situated individuals.

While I still cannot wrap my brain around the result, I am trying to put one foot in front of the other to move forward. It is once again the time for action.

While our trusted advisors seek certiorari to the US Supreme Court, I am seeking an attorney to simultaneously make a post-conviction relief claim – a collateral attack on the process that resulted in my wrongful conviction in violation of my rights. My ideal advocate would take this case pro bono, however it could be funded by my network of family and friends.

I am also concerned about the welfare of my children given that they are in the care of the person who developed this horrible lie to prevent me from getting custody. Perhaps some media coverage of this situation would be warranted – it will not free me, but it would reduce the likelihood of similar injustice to others. Any ideas you have or help you can give would be welcome.

Keeping hope alive and loving you all. More to come.

Rob

Oral Argument September 16, 2010 at 10 am

The Supreme Court of Illinois will hear oral arguments on September 16, 2010 in Springfield. There are 4 cases on the docket beginning at 9 am and Rob's is listed 3rd so 10 am should be the right time to hear his case. This is a great opportunity to see Jeffrey and Sarah in action. Good luck!

Release Granted!

Although I have not seen the court order, the news has just arrived that the Court of Appeals granted Rob's release motion. I don't know how long it will take for him to be tagged and released back into the wild, but I understand that bond will be posted just as soon as the Peoria County Circuit Clerk gets the official ruling. This is way better than Bastille Day!!! More to come...

No news - yet

Greetings,

We still have not heard when Rob will be released on bond.

Keep checking next week as we hope to hear soon.

Thanks for your support and patience. Keep your prayers and well-wishes coming!