New Black Panther Party Voter Intimidation Investigation Continues
WASHINGTON, -- The United States Commission on Civil Rights today released the names of witnesses who will appear at its public hearing on April 23, 2010 on the New Black Panther Party voter intimidation case and the Department of Justice's handling of the matter. The hearing relates to the Commission's investigation of an incident at a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania polling place onElection Day 2008 involving members of the New Black Panther Party. At the hearing, the Commission will collect facts related to civil charges brought by the Department of Justice and examine the Department's actions in the case. Eyewitnesses will provide testimony, and the hearing will also include video evidence. Participants scheduled to appear include U.S. Congressman Frank Wolf; Philadelphia poll watchers Bartle Bull, Mike Mauro, and Chris Hill; and former Assistant Attorney General and Acting Associate Attorney General Gregory Katsas. In case of inclement weather or cancellation for other cause, the hearing will be rescheduled for May 14, 2010 at the same time and location. The Commission has broad authority to investigate allegations of voting irregularities, including voter intimidation, and is authorized to hold hearings and issue subpoenas for the production of documents and attendance of witnesses. Persons with a disability requiring special services should contact Pamela Dunston at least seven days prior to the meeting at 202-376-8105. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is an independent, bipartisan agency charged with monitoring federal civil rights enforcement. Members include Chairman Gerald A. Reynolds, Vice Chair Abigail Thernstrom, Commissioners Todd Gaziano, Gail Heriot, Peter N. Kirsanow, Arlan D. Melendez, Ashley L. Taylor, Jr., and Michael Yaki. Martin Dannenfelser is the Staff Director. Commission meetings are open to the general public. The Commission's website ishttp://www.usccr.gov. SOURCE U.S. Commission on Civil Rights
