Walter McMillan's Wrongful Conviction Overview

Questions and Answers

Why was Walter arrested initially?

For sodomy.

Where were Walter McMillan and Ralph Myers held as detainees?

They were held on death row.

Who was John Evans and how did his execution impact McMillan and Myers?

Evans was known for his botched execution; it caused Myers to become mentally unstable.

Why did Walter's trial move locations, and what does this mean for his chances in court?

The trial was moved to Baldwin County to hinder African American jurors, significantly reducing his chances. Signup and view all the answers

How does Walter's family support him while he is imprisoned?

They raise money through their church and sell their belongings. Signup and view all the answers

Where was Walter when the alleged murder took place at Jackson Cleaners?

Walter was at his own house at a fish fry. Signup and view all the answers

What happened at Walter's trial, and what was the outcome?

Walter's trial lasted about three hours, he was convicted, and sent to death row. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the title 'Trials and Tribulation' important?

It expresses the literal and figurative trials faced by McMillan and Myers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Baston v. Kentucky (1986)?

It banned the dismissal of jurors without valid cause and aimed to prevent all-white juries. Signup and view all the answers

What does Strauder v. West Virginia (1880) assert?

Exclusion from juries based on race violates the Equal Protection Clause. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Walter's Arrest and Charges

Walter McMillan was initially arrested for sodomy, which established the basis for his wrongful conviction.

Detention Conditions

Both Walter McMillan and Ralph Myers were held on death row, reflecting the severe nature of their circumstances.

Impact of John Evans' Execution

John Evans' execution was notoriously botched, lasting about 15 minutes and causing widespread trauma.
The gruesome nature of the execution had a profound psychological effect on Ralph Myers, who became mentally unstable due to the traumatic memories of his past and the horrifying events of that day.

Trial Location Shift

Walter's trial was relocated in an attempt by his lawyers to secure a jury that included African Americans.
The new location, Baldwin County, was predominantly Caucasian and posed a significant barrier to McMillan's chances of a fair trial.

Family Support Mechanisms

Walter's family utilized community resources by raising funds through their church and selling personal belongings to afford legal representation.

Alibi for the Murder Allegation

At the time of the alleged murder at Jackson Cleaners, Walter was hosting a fish fry at his home, providing a solid alibi.

Trial Proceedings and Outcomes

Walter's trial was remarkably brief, lasting only around three hours with inadequate defense efforts.
Myers testified against McMillan, leading to his conviction and subsequent sentencing to death row.

Significance of "Trials and Tribulation"

The title "Trials and Tribulation" symbolizes both the literal legal challenges faced by McMillan and Myers as well as the metaphorical struggles on death row and with law enforcement.

Legal Precedents: Baston v. Kentucky

The 1986 Baston v. Kentucky ruling prohibited the dismissal of jurors without valid cause, aiming to eliminate all-white juries in trials.

Legal Precedents: Strauder v. West Virginia

The 1880 Strauder v. West Virginia decision confirmed that excluding individuals from juries based solely on race violated the Equal Protection Clause, setting an essential standard for fair juror representation.

Description

Explore the key events and circumstances surrounding Walter McMillan's wrongful conviction and the associated trial issues. From the initial arrest to the impact of poorly executed executions, this quiz delves into the profound effects on the individuals involved, particularly Ralph Myers. Understand the systemic barriers faced during the trial and the importance of community support.