Facts of the Case

Intricacies of the Case

The following section of our site provides an overview of the Peltier case.  This intricate case grows more complicated with each passing year as court challenges continue so as to win Leonard's freedom.  In addition to the information presented on this site, we invite you to more thoroughly research the case using the below resources.

Elements of the Case

Additional Reading

• "In the Spirit of Crazy Horse" by Peter Matthiessen. This is the definitive work on the FBI's war against the American Indian Movement and the Peltier case. You can locate a copy of this work in your local library or book store.

• "The Trial of Leonard Peltier" by Jim Messerschmidt with forward by William Kunstler. This acclaimed analysis of Peltier's trial, and that of his co-defendants, convincingly presents how U.S. law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and the judiciary often bend, misuse and even break the law when those in power perceive real or imagined threats. You can locate a copy of this work in your local library or book store.

• U.S. versus Leonard Peltier. This site contains the trial transcript and most of the appeals filed on behalf of Leonard Peltier. The site is frequently updated. Visit the site often to understand the legal actions being taken on Leonard's behalf.