Ramos and Compean: 100th Day Since Appeal

March 13, 2008 is the 100th day since the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans heard the Ramos and Compean case.

Many hoped that former agents Ramos and Compean would have been returned home for Christmas. Sadly, this is not the situation.

At the beginning of the appeal, encouraging news came in the form of Judge E. Grady Jolly’s comments stating that federal prosecutors "may have overreacted in their case against" Ramos and Compean. Jolly questioned Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Steimach saying, "It does seem to me that the government overreacted here."

Steve Elliott, President of Grassfire.org Alliance reports that Nacho Ramos and Jose Compean remain in solitary confinement while their families continue wrestling with mounting emotional and financial burdens.

This adds to the travesty of justice perpetrated by Western Texas U.S. Attorney Johnny Sutton and his questionable prosecution.

It was always clear that the agents were in need of a presidential pardon by George W. Bush. It is obvious a pardon is not forthcoming, as the president remains loyal to his friend Johnny Sutton. Supporters of the agents remain hopeful of a positive ruling from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.

I have chronicled the events leading up to this 100th day, including the end of year presidential pardons that did not include Ramos and Compean. Links to those articles are included for your perusal.

1. U.S. Border Agents Ramos and Compean

2. Agents Appeal is Heard

3. President Bush Pardons

4. One Year in Purgatory

It is notable that during such dark times for the Ramos and Compean families, there remains strong grass roots and bipartisan support for the agents. The consistent champions of this cause are Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA) and Steve Elliott.

Steve Elliott the president of Grassfire Alliance has established a means to aid both families. I have included that link here: http://www.grassfire.org/2142/offer.asp?rid=14953742

As the wheels of justice continue to grind at a snails pace it is difficult to predict if the original miscarriage will be righted. Until then I will continue to support and pray for their relief and that many will join in the efforts to ease the pain of the Ramos and Compean families.

I will furnish the means to forward any personal messages of encouragement to the agents upon request.