Vol. 74/No. 39      October 18, 2010

On September 24 the FBI raided the homes of political activists in Chicago, Minneapolis, and elsewhere in the country, seizing computers, cell phones, passports, and other documents. The agency issued subpoenas to 14 people to appear before a federal grand jury. FBI spokesman Steve Warfield claimed the raids were part of an “ongoing Joint Terrorism Task Force investigation into activities concerning the material support of terrorism.”

Two of those subpoenaed—Stephanie Weiner, a professor at Wilbur Wright College, and Joe Iosbaker, a union steward and staff member at University of Illinois at Chicago—spoke at the news conference.

“The grand jury process is an attempt to violate the inalienable rights under the constitution and international law to freedom of political speech, association, and the right to advocate for change,” Weiner told the press.

“We have nothing to say to the grand jury,” Iosbaker said. He added that all 14 people subpoenaed have said they intend to exercise their Fifth Amendment right not to testify. Grand jury dates for Iosbaker and Weiner have been postponed until October 19.

Speakers at the news conference included Jim Fennerty, president of the National Lawyers Guild here and attorney for Weiner, Iosbaker, and others; Miryam Rashid, American Friends Service Committee; and Rev. Dan Dale, of the United Church of Christ.
 
 
Related articles:
Law would boost gov’t spying over the Internet
FBI covered up spying on antiwar groups  
 
 
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