A judge is demanding an explanation for the transfer of two men convicted of playing secondary roles in a plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to federal prisons out of state. The defendants, Paul Bellar and Joe Morrison, have the right to appeal their convictions following a trial on state charges in Jackson County in 2022. However, their lawyers argue that the distance makes it extremely difficult to work with them and interferes with their right to access Michigan courts.
The decision to transfer the defendants to out-of-state prisons has sparked outrage and disbelief among their legal representatives. Michael Faraone, who represents Morrison, described the move as “mind-boggling” and “appalling.” Faraone emphasized that this case does not involve a terrorist group like al-Qaida, making the transfer even more questionable.
Bellar, Morrison, and co-defendant Pete Musico were found guilty of providing material support for a terrorist act and other charges. Although they had no direct involvement in the kidnapping conspiracy, they had engaged in gun training with the plot’s leader, Adam Fox, and shared his animosity towards Governor Whitmer, law enforcement, and public officials, particularly in response to COVID-19 restrictions. Musico has already been sentenced to at least 12 years in prison, while Morrison received a 10-year sentence and Bellar was sentenced to seven years.
The transfer of Morrison to a federal prison in Illinois and Bellar to one in Pennsylvania has raised questions about the legal authority behind the decision. Faraone expressed his concerns, asking, “Under what legal authority did the MDOC [Michigan Department of Corrections] send him there?” It is unclear why Musico was placed in a West Virginia prison, as he has not formally challenged his placement like the other two defendants.
The difficulties faced by the defendants and their lawyers in maintaining communication and accessing trial transcripts have further compounded the concerns. Ron Ambrose, an appellate lawyer, noted that transcripts sent to Bellar through the mail have been returned, making communication with him nearly impossible.
Assistant Attorney General John Pallas admitted that he does not have specific information about why the three men were transferred out of Michigan, citing “general safety concerns.” Judge Thomas Wilson expressed his frustration, stating, “Without that information, it feels like we’re flying blind.”
The Corrections Department has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter. Pallas assured the lawyers that he would assist them in improving their ability to communicate with the defendants. However, Judge Wilson has scheduled a hearing for December 1 to obtain answers and an update on the situation.
This development has raised concerns about the defendants’ access to justice and has drawn attention to the need for transparency and accountability in the handling of such cases. As the legal proceedings continue, the transfer of these individuals to out-of-state prisons has become a contentious issue that demands further scrutiny.
