I have been homeless in Washington, D.C. for about seven years as I remain hung-up in the court system. I have processed several civil filings to defend myself and my record, but they have not been taken seriously.
For instance, in 2012 I was falsely accused of shoplifting. I plead not guilty, and thus did not take the plea bargain they offered me to plead guilty during the trial-by-judge. My request for a trial by jury was denied. During my trial by judge, I was told that the security footage from the day that I was accused of stealing had been lost.
This seemed suspicious to me, but that there was nothing more I could do.
Each time my cases have not been dismissed, I’ve asked for a trial by jury, in order to plead my case to my peers. Also because while judges hold a very respectable position, that does not mean the person in the position is respectable.
Dragging-on over so many years, it’s tough to maintain hope. But I still get inspired, during events such as the pope’s recent visit and lunch with the homeless. I’m going to keep fighting. What else can I do?
