WHITE LIES - Hardcover

It sounds like a nightmare from decades ago: a black school janitor suspected of murder simply because of his race; evidence in his favor that somehow disappears; intimidated witnesses; judges and prosecutors who conspire to convict; and a death sentence. However, the case of Clarence Brandley--a gross perversion of justice--stings all the more because it happened in the 1980s in Conroe, Texas. Davies, a British reporter, spins a deeply disturbing tale of what was almost a legal lynching, concentrating on the courtroom drama and the lawyers, investigators, witnesses, and a priest who finally grasped justice for Brandley. He also profiles those who sought to keep justice away from him, including more likely suspects. Brandley's story at this time is still unfinished--he is free pending a new trial--and, as Davies eloquently points out, the story will not end as long as racism is still institutionalized in towns like Conroe. Extremely well written, dramatic, and thought-provoking, this is highly recommended. Previewed in Prepub Alert, LJ 11/15/90-- Sally G. Waters, Stetson Law Lib., St. Petersburg, Fla.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

English journalist Davies tells a tale of Texan injustice: how a black janitor was convicted of raping and murdering a white cheerleader, only to be vindicated 10 years later.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.