October 7, 2009 show – The Vanguard interview Albert Bifarelli and Reverend Odeye for a second time to discuss the trial and convcition of Ajay Dev, who in August was sentence to 378 years in prison on 76 convictions stemming from allegations he molested and raped his adopted daughter. Family, friends, and community members argue that this was a wrongful conviction and that Mr. Dev is innocent of all charges.
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Thanks again, David, for your continued reporting on this case. The more I hear about this case, the more convinced I am that Ajay Dev deserves a retrial–and the D.A.’s office is in need of an investigation.
Thank you for allowing your listeners the opportunity to hear more details about this case, David! This man is sitting in jail sentenced for 378 years while questionable issues surrounding his guilt and the jury’s verdict are still unanswered. This is more than tragic! The illogical decision of the jury; no physical evidence; literal translation of the pre-text phone call comment spoken in Nepali language; judge not allowing key evidences (Nepali court documents) in court; perjury and forgery committed by the accuser, lack of a thorough investigation; no dysfunctional behavior related to rape or trauma; accuser never asked for a restraining order; “cash for convictions program” motivation by the DA’s office; DA never interviewed the accused, his family, friends or neighbors nor investigated the crime scenes; racism and perhaps even profiling concerns and so much more. I understand there’s a commission being formed to investigate the Yolo County DA’s office. I would like to see an investigation on this case. Please keep us informed about the progress and outcome of this commission. I visited the http://www.advocatesforajay.com website and it’s very informative. I suggest your listeners do the same.
After listening to the radio show, I am extremely saddened to hear how this man was framed and railroaded to prison. I am disappointed in this entire law enforcement and judicial system and the jury. I am so glad there is an investigation and I know the truth will come out.
To be honest I’m not completely convinced. I was not sitting in that court room so I don’t know. It is obvious that the 300+ years is a gross exaggeration and it does bring up concerns.
But, if a jury of our peers decided this man was guilty…what can I say. I feel for the family…but they must understand that character evidence is not proof enough to deem that this man was not guilty.
To be fair though. A person must be guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. From what I know, do I think he is most likely guilty? Yes, I do.
Beyond a reasonable doubt? No.