Two more local delegates are on board for the inclusion of compensation for Arthur Whitfield in the special session.
In a phone call earlier today, Chesapeake Del. Lionell Spruill, Sr. (D-77th) reaffirmed his support of the Legislative Black Caucus legislation I previously posted. “Mr. Whitfield deserves this compensation and I fully support the consideration of the bill in the special session,” Spruill said.
Norfolk Del. Paula Miller (D-87th) announced her support in a press release:
NORFOLK, VA – Delegate Paula Miller (87th District – Norfolk) announces her support for legislation providing restitution for Arthur Whitfield, a Norfolk man incarcerated for over 22 years before being exonerated on rape charges and released from prison in 2004.
“It is my belief that during the August 19 special session, the General Assembly has an opportunity to provide Mr. Whitfield with the financial assistance that is long overdue” stated Miller.
While the General Assembly is being called to Richmond to respond to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, it is possible that legislation addressing financial compensation to Mr. Whitfield by the Commonwealth will be put to a vote.
Keep ‘em coming, guys. The more support we have, the greater the chance to get this into the special session.
Watch out for Del. Spruill – he may try to sneak Truck Nutz regulation into the special session.
Posted by Brian | Friday, July 31, 2009, 8:06 pm