Crowd alleges racism; judge frees teen accused of aiding murder
TAYLOR -- An 18-year-old college student who supporters say is falsely accused of murder was released from jail this morning, after protesters claimed Taylor cops railroaded him and a friend.
Franklin Smith, an incoming freshman at Kentucky State University, has been jailed since the July 31 murder of single mother Wendy E. Meinke, who was killed rushing to the aid of her son after an argument.
A judge at 23rd District Court in Taylor released Franklin on personal recognizance bond after delaying the preliminary hearing of him and Devin Plummer, 17, also of Taylor. About 50-70 protestors gathered outside the court this morning claiming they are innocent. (Mostly family members)
Taylor police and prosecutors weren't immediately available for comment, but have said they have the right men in custody. A crowd led by Detroit political consultant Adolph Mongo protested the arrests today and claimed the two are victims of racism.
"The charges against the two young men are not surprising when a criminal case involves black men and white women," Mongo said in prepared remarks. "In small towns like Taylor, locking up black men is a hobby for many white cops."
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