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Reverend Markel Hutchins

Civil Rights Activist Weighs In On Wilson Case

Lawyer, Family Says He Does Not Speak For Them

POSTED: 2:13 pm EDT June 15, 2007
UPDATED: 2:30 pm EDT June 15, 2007

A local civil rights activist weighed in on the Genarlow Wilson case Friday by meeting with the Douglas County district attorney.

The Rev. Markel Hutchins emerged from that meeting shaking hands with Douglas County District Attorney David McDade.

Hutchins said the McDade is prepared to make Wilson a very good offer.

Hutchins is most recognized as the spokesman for Kathryn Johnston's family. Johnston was the 92-year-old woman shot and killed by Atlanta police during a botched drug raid.

Hutchins also speaks for 18-year-old Corey Ward's family. An Atlanta officer shot and killed Ward in Buckhead in 2002.

In a statement released by Wilson's attorney, B.J. Bernstein, the family stated they do not want Hutchins involved in the case.

Bernstein said Hutchins has never met Wilson or his family and she is worried his efforts could harm Wilson's case.

"While we welcome direct dialogue with the D.A., people who notify the media first and inject themselves into the story without knowing any of the legal issues are opportunistic and attempting to gain media attention for themselves at the expense of Genarlow Wilson," Bernstein said.

Hutchins responded by saying the case represents more than just Wilson's freedom and that he has nothing but Wilson's interests at heart.

"There are some people that embrace the concept that confrontation is the only way to resolution," Hutchins said. "I think that conversation and negotiation always triumphs over conflict and confrontation. I have said all along that this case represents Genarlow Wilson's future, but it also represents some things that are much greater than that. I have nothing but the interests of that young man at heart."

Hutchins said he is trying to get both sides to work together to come to a resolution in the case.

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