Key Points from the Transcript

Arrest and Trial of Walter McMillan

• Walter McMillan's Arrest

  • Walter McMillan was arrested based on allegations from Ralph Myers.
  • Myers claimed McMillan sexually assaulted him and was involved in Rhonda Morrison's murder.
  • McMillan was arrested on sodomy charges due to Alabama laws against non-procreative sex.

• Situation Leading to Arrest

  • Arrest involved a large police presence led by Sheriff Thomas Tate.
  • McMillan was racially abused and threatened during the arrest.
  • Reference made to a historic lynching in Mobile as a threat.

• Ralph Myers' Account and Investigation

  • Myers' story was inconsistent and lacked credibility.
  • His story implied McMillan forced him to drive to a crime scene despite being able to drive alone.
  • Law enforcement used Myers' and Bill Hooks' testimonies to charge McMillan.

The Impact of Race and Judicial Bias

• Racial Bias and Judicial Issues

  • Preemptory strikes used to create all-white juries, even in predominantly black counties.
  • Supreme Court rulings have been historically ineffective in enforcing diverse juries.

• Venue Change and Trial Outcomes

  • Trial moved to Baldwin County, a predominantly white area, limiting black jury representation.
  • Judge Robert E. Lee Key granted venue change to Baldwin County, making it disadvantageous for McMillan.

McMillan's Time on Death Row

• Conditions and Psychological Impact

  • McMillan was placed on death row prior to his trial, an unusual legal move meant to pressure.
  • The harsh conditions and history of executions at Holman Prison had a significant psychological toll.

• Legal Representation and Challenges

  • Chestnut and Boynton, McMillan's lawyers, faced substantial resistance from local officials.
  • McMillan's alibi was supported by several witnesses, yet it was overlooked by the judicial system.

• Impact on McMillan's Family and Community

  • The trial and accusations created significant distress and disbelief among McMillan's acquaintances.
  • The local black community and civil rights activists advocated for his innocence.

Trial and Conviction

• Trial Proceedings

  • Prosecution relied heavily on Myers' testimony despite inconsistencies.
  • Jury selection issues, with the exclusion of black jurors.

• Outcome and Reaction

  • McMillan was convicted by an almost all-white jury.
  • Sent back to death row, leading to growing anger and frustration.