Yes @DarrenJBeattie just brought up Whitmer case in Tucker interview. This, too, mostly ignored by media.
My coverage of trial today when the judge, reversing his original order, allowed defense to raise FBI entrapment argument during initial phase of the trial;
It became clear during opening statements that there was no way jurors could get fair picture of the “kidnapping” plot without revealing FBIs central role.
One defense attorney noted CHS Steve is a career criminal who got defendants stoned, drunk then recorded conversations.
Adam Fox, the “ring leader,” lived in the cluttered basement of a vacuum repair shop in Grand Rapids. Broke, friendless, no real family to speak of.
CHS Dan befriended him and helped lure him into the trap.
Lots of news happening but this story is vitally important.
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
DC EMS and Fire Dept discuss the four deaths on January 6. This appears to confirm my reporting that police caused and/or contributed to the deaths of all four people.
police were throwing flashbangs (concussion grenades) into the crowd before 2 pm. The paramedics, firemen support that account. The two men went into cardiac arrest within minutes of each other near the same location. People had one man on a makeshift stretcher giving him CPR...
They then discuss when Ashli Babbitt was shot and how they got her out of the building. A few paramedics complain the crowd became "hostile" after that.
Well, no shit.
But the talk about Rosanne Boyland is outrageous. She was lying in a pool of chemical spray in the building...
Good morning! Whitmer "kidnapping" trial already underway. FBI Agent under cross-ex by Chris Gibbons, Adam Fox's atty. Most of the evidence so far consists of Facebook videos posted on Fox's account.
FBI agent confirms informants infiltrated chat groups and gave FBI access.
FBI agent explains how CHSs are retained. No signed agreement required?
FBI uses a code name to arrange payments. Agent says CHSs do not have to submit receipts to FBI to obtain reimbursements. This seems extremely sloppy if true.
Agent explains how FBI hires CHS--it's alarming
CHSs are paid cash only. FBI runs background check on CHS but not a credit check. Agent only has to tell supervisor what the CHS will do and maybe CHS motivation for approval
FBI gives general orders and admonishments--also furnishes recording devices. Some look like key fobs.
And we're back to Whitmer trial after break so both sides can prepare for FBI entrapment defense.
Judge tells jury he hoped to put off entrapment issues until after DOJ rested but it's not possible to "segment" the argument. Defense, prosecutor will present new opening arguments
Whooo boy. Croft atty not holding back. "The FBI is supposed to protect us and protect our rights. They are not supposed punish people who say mean things about them. We expect the FBI to use responsible tactics."
Croft was criticizing FBI on Facebook in 2017, made him a target
Blanchard, Croft atty, now blasting CHS Steve as a longtime criminal who committed crimes in 9 states.
CHS Steve was "plying guys with drugs" at every event. "Out of their minds stoned." Violates FBI rules.
FBI ignored CHS Steve behavior. Also selectively record defendants.
Government opening: "They were going to break into the governor's home and take her away. This was not just talk. Their actions were just as...disturbing as their words. They performed reconnaissance at her home, twice. But it was when they tried to buy the bomb..
that the government stopped" the plot.
Jury will hear from 2 undercover agents-- these are the FBI agents whose identities DOJ wanted to conceal from the jury and prevent artist from sketching their faces. Judge denied request.
Listening to jury selection hearing for Whitmer trial. A good mix of citizens who don't follow the news/politics and those with strong views (for/against) on Gov. Whitmer.
Unlike January 6, national news coverage of this case basically disappeared after FBI involvement exposed.
"I only look at the weather." Very typical Midwestern response, lol. "It's bi-polar."
FIVE people with no cable--love this. Lawyer is shocked. Working class area, 2nd person with 6 children.
Doesn't seem like there will be a problem seating a jury.
There is some consistent coverage in Detroit News but coverage of this case otherwise has been sparse. Unless the jurors read BuzzFeed or Revolver or AmGreatness, it's unlikely they've read a lot about what's unfolded especially related to FBI deep involvement.